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Financial advisers have thrown their support behind Future2, the foundation of the Australian financial planning profession, raising $50,000 for local charities.

Future2 chair, Steve Helmich, said the vision of the organisation was to allow financial planners to give back to the community from which they draw their living.

“Our aim is to be part of the fabric of that community and give back in ways other than professional advice…to be the beating heart of the profession, giving those less fortunate a second chance and a hope for a better future,” he said.

The six grants totalling $50,000 went to grassroots projects which support disadvantaged and at-risk youngsters. Helmich said the organisation’s aim was to raise at least $1.5m per year in the near future, although admitted there was still a lot of work to do.

“We look forward to the day when – with the backing of financial planning professionals – we can give much more and touch the lives of more young Australians who are marginalised and lack the opportunities most of us take for granted,” said Helmich. 

Grants of $10,000 were awarded to: Baptiste Union of Queensland Community Services Group, Blue Mountains Disability Services, Byron Bay Community Association Inc and Live Free Tassie.
 
Two $5,000 awards were given as ongoing support for Australian Children’s Music Foundation and Family Resource & Network Support Inc, which both also received sponsorship in 2010.

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