We’re proud to show you the difference your generosity is making, especially through one special place: The Paddock, our seven acre farm in Leopold.
The Paddock is a place where people of all abilities can come together to learn life skills, contribute, and connect, especially those who have faced barriers to work or education. In 2023, the Foundation made a bold commitment to our community, by purchasing this much-loved property, retaining it as a community asset for connection, learning, and inclusion in our region. Since then, it has continued to flourish, not only through what’s grown in the ground, but through the skills and opportunity, it’s giving those who engage with it.
People like Matt, who has been part of The Paddock community for over 12 years and who has kindly shared his story with you.
Growing skills and independence at The Paddock
Matt is part of the Give Where You Live Foundation’s Paddock community.
Living with autism, he spends four days a week at The Paddock building his skills and confidence as he works toward his goal of finding meaningful paid work and living independently.
At The Paddock, Matt has discovered a love for horticulture. He’s learned how to grow native plants from seed, built a filing system to track their progress, and also developed his computer skills to manage nursery data which combines his love of numbers and nature. He’s also found joy and confidence in The Paddock’s commercial kitchen, helping prepare meals for community groups and building skills for independence.
“Horticulture has always been somewhere in the background for me but learning about it here has really sparked it and opened it up in my life.”
Matt is also a mentor to others at The Paddock, helping with the activities that keep the farm running and sharing not just his skills, but also his pride, passion, and strong sense of belonging.
“I absolutely love it here. Really, I’d be lost without this place. My goal in coming out here is to find paid employment and to live independently. That’s the big goal at the top of the tree.”
For over 70 years, the Give Where You Live Foundation has worked with our community to create a fairer Geelong, where everyone has the support and opportunity they need to thrive. By making a tax-deductible donation to our End of Financial Year Appeal, you’ll be supporting people in your community. Matt’s story is a reminder of how your support helps people grow, connect and build a brighter future. Donate today at https://gwyl-eofy25.raiselysite.com/