Annual Report 2024 Reections | Edition 4Cooper InvestorsPhilantropy Message
Peter Cooper Founder & Chief Investment OcerAt CI we invest on behalf of over 4 million Australians from all walks of life and all manner of employment and industry. This includes trustees and beneficiaries of superannuation funds, churches, charities, trusts and foundations. The sole reason we exist is to invest wisely for them all.(Front cover) Children playing on the Mongolian steppe. Photo courtesy of Jefta Ongkodiputra.
Introduction 4Soul in the Game 5Philanthropy the CI Way 6Reflecting on our Impact 7Investing in Pro Bono Support 8Investing in Community Impact 12Investing in Mental Health 20Investing in Social Enterprise 26Investing in The World Around Us 32Investing in Values 34Our Partners 35
Reflections | Edition 4 is a testament to the shared dedication of our grant partners, our team, and the broader Cooper Investors community. Together, we’ve taken meaningful steps toward creating a better future—locally and globally.
Impact Report 2024 | 5Soul in the GameI’m delighted and honoured to introduce the Cooper Investors Philanthropy Annual Report 2024. This report continues our tradition to champion, celebrate and commend the extraordinary eorts of those at the forefront of creating positive change in our community: the passionate and purpose-driven founders and leaders guiding impactful organisations.This year’s Reections Report highlights the projects and collaborations that have dened our philanthropic programming over the past year, and also over the longer term. I’m so pleased to share our joint stories, some which have only just begun and others that have grown over many years. We know that addressing systemic challenges requires patience, persistence, and partnerships. In this year’s report we have chosen to focus on how building authentic, reciprocal relationships results in tangible outcomes for some of the most vulnerable members of our community.Investing in the Future We see the CI Philanthropy program as an investment in a brighter future. Our aim is to transform generosity into long term change. By identifying and supporting initiatives aligned with shared values and community needs, the program creates opportunities for innovation and sustainability. In turn, this empowers communities to nurture meaningful projects that have a lasting legacy, becoming an ongoing source of hope and inspiration.Building RelationshipsAt Cooper Investors, relationships are at the core of everything we do. We understand that the most important contributions often go beyond metrics, and the value of some actions lies in their ripple eect—the connections they spark, the momentum they generate, and the lives they touch.In 2024, we lived our relationship values in tangible ways, such as:• Leveraging Expertise: Providing pro bono funds management to Listed Investment Companies that deliver returns while supporting medical research, youth mental health and people experiencing disadvantage (page 8).• Empowering Engagement: Supporting the Cooper Investors team to be engaged with CI Sta Fund to support initiatives close to their hearts (page 12).• Fostering Philanthropy: Bringing together our resources and network to platform the personal story of giving by one truly dedicated individual and the care from a remarkable doctor who changed her life (page 16).A Year of ContributionI want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the CI Philanthropy Committee. Their dedication and collaborative eorts over the past year have been instrumental in enabling us to achieve the distribution of:$417,000 28 Grant PartnersAround 50% of the Cooper Investors team now participate on the committee or in the philanthropy program through volunteering, championing causes close to their hearts or providing pro bono funds management.Ultimately, good philanthropy is more than the sum of its parts—it is a shining light on the hill that drives positive change and inspires other to join in the pursuit of a better world.Nicole Engelman Head of Philanthropy Cooper Investors“I hope you enjoy reading these stories of purpose, passion, and possibility. May they inspire you as deeply as they inspire us”.
6 | Impact Report 2024Over the past 23 years we have attracted and retained a group of ambitious and energetic investors with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and personalities, who are dedicated to the CI Way and unied by the common goal of caring not only about results but also how we achieve them.This philosophy is reected in the Cooper Investors Philanthropy program. Our selection process for grant partners is informed by the same principles that guide our broader business. We operate with a “portfolio” approach to our philanthropy, seeking value, good operating trends and outstanding leadership to align with the CI Way of investing. While nancial contributions are undeniably important, the Cooper Investors Philanthropy program is about much more than money. We embrace the ve “T’s” of philanthropy—time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony—recognising that this holistic approach allows us to make a greater dierence. By living out these principles, we foster a meaningful and well-rounded philanthropy program, with each element bringing its own unique value and impact. To achieve Cooper Investors’ philanthropy goals, we direct the majority of our support to the following areas: • Social Enterprise Program: A Social Enterprise is a business that trades to tackle social problems, improve communities and people’s lives by promoting and encouraging social change, in a nancially sustainable way. • Mental Health Partnership Program: Supporting collaborations and organisations that provide frontline services in the community that deliver early intervention and prevention initiatives.• International Initiatives: To support overseas aid organisation and initiatives that make it easier for Australians to send charitable dollars overseas.Further, to honour the origins of Cooper Investors’ Philanthropy we remain committed to providing funding to match contributions to sta led community fund raising initiatives.Philanthropy, the CI WayCI was established with the thought that people and culture really matter. We follow the idea heralded by Peter Drucker that “culture eats strategy”.
Impact Report 2024 | 7We believe that true impact is a process, not a destination. It’s about staying open to learning and evolving, rather than focusing on celebrating past successes.Our aim is to create lasting, positive change by working together, growing through experience, and staying committed to the greater good.In keeping with this perspective, we oer the below overview of the numbers that underpin our allocation of philanthropic capital to philanthropic eorts and partnerships in FY24.Reflecting on our ImpactAt Cooper Investors, humility is at the core of our approach to philanthropy.Grants Overview 28 Grants Approved, $417,000 Total of Grants PaidMental Health $180,000 (43%)Social Enterprise $180,000 (43%)International $54,100 (13%)Sta Matching $3,600 (1%)International Aid 2%Housing Security 10%Men’s Health 5%Children & Young People 10%Education 14%Disability 5%Mental Health: Early Intervention 10%Mental Health: Services & Supports 13%Training & Employment Access 10%Environment 5%Food Security 8%Women & Girls 8%Grants by Social Impact AreaGrants by Program Area
Investing in Pro Bono SupportBy serving as fund managers and foregoing fees for LICs such as Hearts & Minds Investments and the Future Generation companies, Cooper Investors’ Portfolio Managers play a key role in championing and advancing innovative, sustainable funding models within the for-purpose sector. The pro bono contribution of Cooper Investors’ funds managers’ time and talent not only supports the growth of these models but also ensures that program beneciaries receive the necessary resources to thrive. Through this hands-on approach, our Portfolio Managers create tangible value, helping to build a more resilient and impactful social economy.Beyond providing direct funding through the grants program, Cooper Investors provides signicant support to the for purpose sector by oering pro bono investment management expertise to a new type of Listed Investment Company (LIC) focused on delivering both investment and social returns. This new model of philanthropic support is a terric addition to the growing Australian philanthropic sector, traditionally the domain of perpetual charitable trusts.By providing pro bono investment services and waiving management fees, Cooper Investors is part of a collective that has directed more than $130m over the past eight years to the charitable sector supporting kids doing it tough and enabling vital medical research.
BackTrack Youth Works team
10 | Impact Report 2024Future GenerationCooper Investors is part of a group of leading fund managers brought together by Future Generation to manage more than 1 billion in assets on a pro bono basis. By waiving management and performance fees this group of prominent fund managers enables Future Generation to donate 1% of their average net tangible assets each year. Future Generation was the rst investment fund of its kind to waive fees in support of philanthropic giving in Australia and is dedicated to funding transformational initiatives through investment practices. In November 2024 Future Generation proudly celebrated their ten-year anniversary. This milestone marks a decade of doing well for investors and doing good for children and young people nation-wide.The Future Generation Impact Partners are working to support at risk children and young people and include organisations such as BackTrack Youth Works, also a long-term grant partner of Cooper Investors Philanthropy.BackTrack Youth Works provides holistic education, accommodation, training and employment to help some of the toughest kids get their lives back on track. The Core Program helps kids from 11 to 18 to develop literacy, numeracy, life and employability skills.From inception to 2024, Future Generation has provided $87.2M of funding to its social impact partners.
Impact Report 2024 | 11Hearts and Minds Hearts and Minds is an Australian LIC that has donated $70M to leading medical research organisations since its inception with support from its suite of fund managers, including Cooper Investors, who provide their highest conviction investment ideas pro bono.Further, by waiving investment fees, Cooper Investors has the privilege of directing signicant nancial support to leading Australian medical research organisations of our choice.In 2024, Cooper Investors chose to direct support to the Bionics Institute. Project overviewTinnitus, the experience of ringing, buzzing, or other noises without an external source, aects up to 1 in 5 Australians, severely impacting their quality of life. This can lead to anxiety, depression, social isolation and sleep issues. Despite its prevalence, there is no objective measure for tinnitus. This project aims to develop an objective measure for tinnitus using a non-invasive brain imaging method called functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) which measures changes in blood oxygen levels in the brain. An objective measure will conrm diagnoses, monitor symptoms over time, and identify dierent types of tinnitus.This project represents a signicant step towards developing eective diagnosis and treatment for tinnitus.Using a general-purpose fNIRS system, Lead Researcher on the project, Dr Mehrnaz Shoushtarian and her research team have established a technique that detects tinnitus with 87% accuracy. However, to meet clinical usability requirements, a specialised prototype is under development.Dr Shoushtarian says: “We have developed an objective test of tinnitus using fNIRS and machine learning to detect tinnitus-related changes in the brain, which is an important step in developing reliable treatments”.Supported by a generous donation fromHearts and Minds Investmentsas nominated byCooper Investors, the engineering team will produce ve prototypes in 2024 for use in a multi-site clinical trial.Lead Researcher Dr Mehrnaz Shoushtarian and Nicole Engelman at the Bionics Institute with the new technology.
Investing in Community ImpactThrough Cooper Investors Philanthropy we seek to empower the CI team to really put their ‘soul in the game’ by authentically participating in the program.At Cooper Investors, we recognise that our responsibilities extend beyond our core business activities. By actively engaging in community initiatives and fostering a culture of contribution, we aim to create positive, lasting change.Our team play a crucial role in driving these eorts, contributing their time, skills, and passion to causes that matter. Whether through company-wide volunteer programs, fundraising eorts, or individual acts of service, their commitment reinforces our values.
“I was thrilled to bring this ground roots organisation to the attention of CI Philanthropy and help support their social enterprise initiatives.”Otgonkhuu (left) and CI Analyst Jefta (right)
Impact Report 2024 | 15Jefta’s Bayasgalant Story“I anxiously waited at the Chinggis Khaan International Airport for my guide. I had received the disappointing news that the experienced guide I had booked to show me around Mongolia had instead sent a rst-time guide to accompany me. There I was greeted in English by an energetic young man who introduced himself as Otgonkhuu, Otgo for short. Through the next two weeks, we traversed hundreds of kilometres on horseback with the bare necessities. Through the vast grasslands, mountains, forests, I learned about the incredible triumphs and challenges of the one million nomadic inhabitants of Mongolia.Like many nomadic families, Otgo’s parents lived as pastoral nomads, tending to their herds. However, they also recognised the potential for a dierent future for their children, one shaped by the signicant economic opportunities that an education in the urban cities could provide. Access to these opportunities presented another problem, they would have to give up their cultural heritage and impoverish themselves just for their children to have a shot at receiving an educational opportunity we all take for granted.Nomadic parents often have little choice but to sell their herd and move to edges of the nation’s capital of Ulaanbaatar or remain on the steppe and send their children o to receive an education. Though highly skilled in their element, herders moving to cities often suer from high levels of unemployment. The children of herder families who remain on the steppe lack support in the city. In both cases, there is a fundamental need for care and education for the least fortunate children on the skirts of Ulaanbaatar.Impressively, despite these challenges, Otgo attained a university education, learned English by working and studying in the USA and had ambitions to start his own tourism business. Learning about his journey, he repeatedly credited a local organisation named “Bayasgalant.” Nearing the end our adventures, I knew I had to visit the place Otgo grew up. I felt compelled to visit, learn and contribute in my small way to the organisation doing such important work.A shining example of the CI team’s commitment to the Philanthropy Program is Jefta Ongkodiputra, Research Analyst – Global Equities, and his passionate engagement with and championing of Bayasgalant Children’s Aid located in Mongolia.Jefta presented on the compelling and impactful work of the Bayasgalant team at one of the Cooper Investors Philanthropy quarterly ‘lunch and learn’ sessions. Here, Jefta tells his story of his travels to Mongolia and engagement with Bayasgalant in his own words.Translating to “Happy” in Mongolian, “Bayasgalant” was founded more than twenty years ago by four Swiss women (Christine Jaggi, Martina Zurcher, Flavia Grossman, Sabine Willach) who journeyed to Mongolia and witnessed the challenges faced by families and children on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar. Bayasgalant initially operated as a soup kitchen in a “Ger” (traditional Mongolian tent), however, with the community needs and the founders’ passion and fundraising ability, Bayasgalant quickly grew with permanent xtures including a dining room, classrooms and a playground. Though I had to return to Australia, Otgo and his story of Bayasgalant never left my mind. I knew I needed to return. In 2023, I returned to Mongolia. With the help of Otgo we toured the newly built Bayasgalant facilities, and I endeavoured to learn much more about how we could help.Today, Bayasgalant runs a daycare and kindergarten that targets the most underprivileged families in Ulaanbaatar where it cares for more than 200 children, supported by 24 full time sta including teachers, psychologists, social workers and cooks. As the on-the-ground head of Bayasgalant Zaya told me “What the parents can’t do, we do.” With all deeds with great needs, there is always more to do.I was thrilled to bring this ground roots organisation to the attention of CI Philanthropy and help support their social enterprise initiatives.”Inspired by Jefta’s commitment and advocacy, the CI Philanthropy Committee approved a grant to support Bayasgalant’s ongoing programs, ensuring their vital work continues to grow and positively impact children for years to come.
16 | Impact Report 2024At Cooper Investors, we believe that relationships are the foundation of our work. We recognise that true impact often extends beyond numbers. The value of our eorts is found in the connections we create—whether they spark new collaborations, drive meaningful change, or have a lasting eect on individuals and communities. By fostering deep, genuine relationships, we aim to build a network of support that amplies our collective impact, creating a ripple eect that extends far beyond any single action.The belief in this philosophy was proven out when Cooper Investors Philanthropy was approached by Shelley Kline. Shelley, with her unstoppable energy and drive has been the force behind establishing a much-needed scholarship in the department of Ophthalmology at the Royal Children’s Hospital, the Professor Frank Billson Research Scholarship.After connecting with Shelley, we knew there was an opportunity to engage a broader network in supporting the scholarship. To amplify her mission and help raise substantial funds, Cooper Investors sponsored a mini-documentary to share her story and inspire others to contribute.The documentary was launched to a packed Cooper Investors Boardroom in May 2024. Since that time it has been used to inspire many donors to contribute signicant funds to the scholarship.Shelley Kline as a childImage courtesy of the Royal Children’s Hospital Archives.Professor Frank Billson AO Research ScholarshipDocumentary Launch in the Cooper Investors Boardroom.
Impact Report 2024 | 17Shelley’s StoryShelley Kline was diagnosed with a debilitating eye condition, and credits ophthalmologist Professor Frank Billson AO for giving his life-changing care. Shelley established the Professor Frank Billson Research Scholarship to honour not only Prof Billson’s clinical legacy and his lifetime commitment to treating children and babies with sight problems, but also the personal care she received for close to 40 years.Shelley and her family were introduced to Professor Frank Billson AO or ‘Prof’ as Shelley calls him, as he was one of only a handful of ophthalmologists who knew anything at that time about her rare condition.From the moment they met, it was obvious that he was a special doctor who conveyed empathy, compassion and was very experienced.“Prof Frank Billson has had such a profound impact on my life. He was a brilliant doctor; he always had such a good way of presenting the information and allowing me to make my own decisions with regards to my health”Shelley introducing her family to Professor Billson AO.Prof Frank Billson AO has a long and distinguished career in ophthalmology which began in Melbourne. He has long standing ties with the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) and was the Director of the Ophthalmology Department for seven years in the 1960’s. The idea of early intervention and the benets that early diagnosis and treatment could oer for children and their families was a major interest. During his time at the RCH, the hospital’s expertise in paediatric ophthalmology became internationally recognised.The Professor Frank Billson Research Scholarship will provide annual funding for a sta member within the Ophthalmology Department to assist with research activities supported by the Department.Great charitable initiatives like the Professor Frank Bilson Research Scholarship have that something extra. Big or small, they are established by inspiring founders and helmed by leaders with drive, passion, and purpose, whose empathy and compassion, understands the needs, preferences, and aspirations of those it is set up to serveScan the QR code to Watch the documentary
18 | Impact Report 2024The impact of the Professor Frank Billson Research Scholarship“A project of this scale and impact requires dedicated time and funding, and dedicated scholarships of this magnitude are few and far between. Simply put, this work would not be possible without the scholarship.”Cathy Lewis Chief Orthoptist at the RCHDr Sandra Staeri AO Retinoblastoma Care CoordinatorDr Anu Mathew Director of Ophthalmology at the RCH“It makes all the dierence that there are funds dedicated solely to paediatric eye care. We can have reliable, ongoing funding to plan projects, continually improve our services to our community and continue to be among the leading children’s hospitals.”“Making a change to improving children’s vision isn’t just about the people doing the research or thinking up the research questions. It’s about the people who actually enable that to happen, the donors, and it is really validating to receive funding for a research project because it tells you that somebody else thinks the work you do is important. For me, it is like the donors are part of our research team, because what we do isn’t possible without them.”Cathy Lewis and Dr Anu Mathew Dr Sandra Staeri AOScan the QR code to learn more about the impact of the scholarship and how to make a donation to support this vital research
Courtesy of the Royal Children’s Hospital Archives
Investing inMental HealthIn Australia, 50% of all mental illness has its onset before the age of 14.The goal of a Mental Health Partnership Program is to proactively address mental health challenges before they escalate, fostering resilience and long-term wellbeing.By investing in:• Integrated and accessible mental health supports and services• Education• Advocacy the program aims to equip individuals, families, and communities with the tools to recognise and manage mental health concerns at an early stage. This approach reduces the long-term burden on healthcare systems, improves quality of life, and empowers individuals to thrive. In 2024 we continue to be focused on prevention initiatives as we know that intervention at an early age is critical to cultivating a culture where mental health is valued and stigma is reduced. Alarmingly, only 1% of government funding for mental health is directed towards prevention.By investing in early intervention and prevention mental health programs, we’re investing in a work that leads to improved mental wellbeing, better educational and career outcomes, and stronger social relationships. By addressing issues early, these programs reduce long-term healthcare costs, enhance resilience, and foster healthier, more productive communities.$180,000•12 Grant Partners
22 | Impact Report 2024LighthouseLighthouse Foundation’s Young Women’s Freedom Program, oered in therapeutic homes, oers a survivor centred, trauma informed program to young women escaping, or at risk of, modern slavery practices including forced marriage. Throughout the program (which generally runs from 18-24 months depending on individual needs) young people aged 16-25 are supported to build a sense of personal agency, discover their interests, and develop independent living skills while residing in a safe and secure Lighthouse home that provides 24/7 live in support by therapeutic carers. Each young person is supported by a Therapeutic Case Manager through the program, which incorporates collaborative assessment, goal planning, case coordination and referral to services that meet their individual needs.Lighthouse acknowledges that practices of modern slavery are complex, and the Young Women’s Freedom Program supports these young people at the intersection of forced marriage (at risk of or exiting), domestic servitude, tracking, sexual exploitation and complex family violence.“It has been a challenging, but rewarding journey for everyone who has connected with Amina. She has a wonderful, cheeky sense of humour, incredible strength and resilience, quietly gets stu done and has grown into a wonderful young person, ready to y the coupe” wrote Lighthouse case manager, Prue McIntoshAmina’s StoryAmina (name changed for privacy) is a young person who has spent 2.5 years in the Young Women’s Freedom Project (YWFP), having escaped early forced marriage. In January 2024 we received some happy and exciting news! Amina has secured a private rental share-house and will be moving out of the Lighthouse Glen Iris home and starting University in late February. Here are some of the amazing goals Amina has achieved during her time with YWFP: • Finishing VCE • Going to the year 12 school formal • Getting a university placement • Getting her learners permit and being a rad learner driver! • Learning to be an incredible advocate for herself and others • Building safe and supportive relationships in the Lighthouse community.
Impact Report 2024 | 23Cherished PetsCherished Pets harnesses the power of the human- animal bond to enhance the health and wellbeing of vulnerable people and their cherished pets. Their program of interconnected veterinary and social services support those facing challenges such as ageing, disability, family violence, homelessness, mental health, and unexpected crises.Every day, Cherished Pets witnesses the deep challenges people face alongside their beloved animals. For example, those experiencing homelessness may forgo shelter to stay with their pets, survivors of family violence might delay seeking safety out of fear of losing them, and individuals experiencing mental health crises often avoid help to prevent separation from their pets. Cherished Pets’ services bridge this gap by oering at-home pet care, veterinary bill assistance, respite care, and volunteer support, with Veterinary Social Workers supporting and connecting pet owners to human health and welfare agencies, ensuring they receive comprehensive care.“With increasing social isolation, loneliness, and disadvantage, the role that companion animals play in supporting people’s health and wellbeing has huge value. Everything we do is focused on helping people experience the profound benets of healthy companion pets and a thriving human-animal bond.” Dr Alicia (Lissi) Kennedy Founder of Cherished PetsThis support is a lifeline, preventing the heartbreaking separation of pets from their families and ensuring beloved animals remain safe, healthy, and cared for, while also enabling people to access the help they need during their most challenging moments. By combining veterinary and social services, Cherished Pets strengthens the bond, fostering positive health, wellbeing, and social outcomes and creating connected communities.Bree & Simba’s Story“I was admitted to hospital for a month due to mental health and domestic violence, and then to a mental health rehab facility. I had no way to care for my cat, Simba, my best friend, and faced the heartbreaking reality I would need to surrender him.Thankfully, a social worker from the hospital referred me to Cherished Pets, and they organised for Simba to be collected and cared for. They sent me updates and photos, and it meant so much to know Simba was safe and loved while I focused on getting better. I’m home now with Simba and learning to live again. I’m so grateful I could keep my best friend.”
24 | Impact Report 2024Cooper Investors Philanthropy Donation ImpactEDFA used the donation from Cooper Investors Philanthropy in 2023/24 to fund the following campaign:Tonic Health Media NetworkThe brochure campaign was highly successful, with a total of 6,720 brochures being removed during the campaign and an additional estimated 1,680 people reading and returning it to a display. • Distribution of 30,420 brochures• To 1,566 medical centres in • Metro New South Wales (including Newcastle area)• Queensland (including: The Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba areas)EDFAEDFA is the only national organisation providing support, education, advocacy and counselling solely to carers and families of those living with an eating disorder. Through leadership, education, and research, EDFA improves the lives of eating disorder carers. EDFA works to create stigma-free communities where eating disorder carers are recognised for their vital role and receive the assistance they need. They achieve better outcomes for those with eating disorders by helping their carers to navigate the complex healthcare system. There are currently 1.1 million Australians living with an eating disorder. EDFA conservatively estimates that this means there at least 4.4 million Australians impacted by an eating disorder when families and carers are taken into account. EDFA’s aim is to make sure each of these carers knows they are not alone, that recovery is possible, and that there is support available to them at every step of the recovery journey.EDFA currently provides services to more than 3,000 parents and carers of those living with an eating disorder. In fact, EDFA membership has grown nearly 30 percent since July 1, 2024. EDFA have helped thousands more since it’s establishment in 2016. Their services are grounded in understanding and hope - carers’ isolation, distress, and lack of knowledge are reduced when they have access to lived-experience support. “Thank you to the EDFA for existing. You’ve helped me more in two weeks than the support I’ve received over the past year.”Program participant
Impact Report 2024 | 25Ocean MindIn the world of philanthropy, true impact is not just about funding projects—it’s about forging deep, values-aligned relationships that stand the test of time. Over the past four years, the partnership between Cooper Investors Philanthropy and Ocean Mind has been more than just a nancial commitment—it has been a shared journey of growth, impact, and lasting change. Ocean Mind provides evidence-based therapeutic surng intervention for young people experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation and disabilities. A recent randomised controlled trial found that Ocean Mind’s six-week surf therapy program improved participating children’s mental health in a number of ways. These children had greater reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, inattention and emotional problems by the end of the program compared to children waiting to receive the program.From a movie night aimed at sharing the work of Ocean Mind with our networks and likeminded funders, to a CI boardroom lunch and learn session, our partnership has created meaningful opportunities for Ocean Mind to connect, educate, and inspire more support for youth mental health through surf therapy.In fact, in 2024, Ocean Mind took a bold step towards expanding their reach by setting their sights on the Mornington Peninsula, a goal they had long held close to their hearts. After careful planning, the excitement of launching Ocean Mind in the Mornington Peninsula was undeniable.This expansion means they’ll be able to support even more young people facing challenges, bringing the transformative power of surf therapy to new shores.“Volunteering with Ocean Mind has helped my own mental health. Seeing the dierence we make in not only the young person’s life but the impact in their family is huge. Giving back and supporting these families and being a part of something bigger than myself has given me a beautiful perspective on life.”Ocean Mind Mentor
Investing inSocial Enterprise$180,000•10 Grant PartnersThe Social Enterprise Program supports the belief that philanthropy and sustainability can go hand in hand. The program aims to foster innovation and scalability in social enterprises addressing critical societal challenges, such as:• Poverty• Education• Mental health• Homelessness• Barriers to employment and trainingWe support innovative, mission driven charities and social enterprises that have a dened social purpose benet to promote, encourage, and make social change - in a nancially sustainable way. This year we have focused on social enterprises that are a powerful force for good, positively transforming communities by creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and addressing systemic challenges with innovative solutions. By reinvesting prots into meaningful programs and services, these enterprises uplift individuals, empower communities, and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future. Their impact is a testament to the power of purpose-driven work in building stronger, more resilient societies.Today there are over 12,000 social enterprises in Australia, contributing $21.3 billion to the economy each year, and accounting for 1% of GDP.
Impact Report 2024 | 27Social TradersSocial Traders is Australia’s largest and oldest social enterprise industry body. They’ve been building a thriving social enterprise sector since 2008. Social Traders’ ambition is to make social enterprise business as usual. Australian Spatial Analytics is one of Australia’s largest and fastest-growing work-integrated not-for-prot social enterprises. This multiple award-winning certied social enterprise creates an inclusive workplace for young neurodivergent adults – including autistic Australians who face a 34% unemployment rate – to provide professional geospatial and digital engineering data services for multiple industries and all government levels. With the support of Cooper Investors, Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA) received a fully-subsidised Social Traders Grow membership in 2024. The Grow Program supports the sustainable growth of social enterprises by enabling them to become more adaptable to market conditions and optimise opportunities for social procurement. The more revenue a social enterprise has, the more social impact it can create – making a tangible dierence in the lives of Australians. Through the grant from Cooper Investors Philanthropy, Social Traders has supported Australian Spatial Analytics to unlock their potential to create an inclusive workplace for young neurodivergent adults. Through the Grow Program, Social Traders, and Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA) identied a need to increase awareness of ASA among potential procurement and strategic partners.ASA was invited to participate in several high-prole external and internal events to increase its exposure among key stakeholders. Notably, ASA received a keynote guest speak opportunity at Social Traders largest annual event, the Vic/Tas Awards.At these awards, ASA representatives Emma, Nick, and Nick’s support dog, Mipha, were featured as keynote speakers before an audience of approximately 120 attendees. Social Traders collaborated with ASA to prepare a speech that highlighted ASA’s impact on its workforce and provided a deeper understanding of its unique beneciary cohort. ASA’s presentation included an introduction to its services, a beneciary perspective and a Q&A to share Nick’s experiences working. ‘Being invited to speak at the Vic/Tas awards was a fantastic opportunity to introduce ASA to so many people in the social impact sector. Allowing Nick the space to share his personal journey from joining ASA as a junior data analyst through to his transition to Acciona as a Digital Engineering Coordinator on the M80 Ring Road Completion Project was not just a great opportunity for him to get back into public presentation (a goal of his), but provided the audience with a really powerful example of the impact that we have in changing people’s lives.’Emma Shaw ASA Account Manager
28 | Impact Report 2024xpand FoundationThe xpand Foundation is a social enterprise dedicated to the fostering of an inclusive society where the livelihood and happiness of every individual are valued. It creates and supports locally managed initiatives that promote the social inclusion of marginalised individuals, helping to build a community grounded in achieving positive outcomes both socially and economically. The xpand Foundation is committed to empowering communities by putting an ‘earned dollar’ in a person’s pocket. Using a social enterprise model means communities move beyond charity and aid into sustainable livelihoods. In turn, sustainable broad-based economic growth creates employment and income earning opportunities for poor women and men, leading to a lasting reduction in poverty for the entire community.Cooper Investors Philanthropy provides funding to the xpand Foundation to support the WithOneSeed: Tree02 social enterprise in Timor Leste. Since 2010, the WithOneSeed program has been growing trees in Timor-Leste to deliver environmental, economic, and social benets to smallholder subsistence farming communities. TreeO2 is a unique digital monitoring, reviewing and validation tool for smallholder carbon farming programs in the global south. It democratises access to carbon markets through its simplicity, transparency and integrity.“To put an ‘earned’ dollar in someone’s pocket gives them the power to determine their own future. The xpand Foundation supports communities to move beyond charity and aid by delivering opportunities for communities and individuals to become economically independent”. Andrew Mahar AM. CEO xpand Foundation
Impact Report 2024 | 29White Box Enterprises was launched in 2019 to redene employment in Australia through the lens of Employment Social Enterprises (ESEs). They do this by proving the eectiveness and impact of ESE as commercially viable organisations providing sustainable and living wage employment to the most disadvantaged individuals and community groups. White Box Enterprise’s vision is an Australia where every individual who wants a job can access one.Employment has the power to change lives. Yet almost two million individuals are unemployed or underemployed, and our country’s support systems and mainstream workplaces don’t support them in an appropriate way for their needs.Employment Social Enterprises address this issue by creating employment opportunities for individuals facing signicant social and economic barriers. These enterprises combine business objectives with social missions, targeting cohorts with entrenched disadvantages including individuals with disabilities, long-term unemployed people, refugees, youth without formal qualications, and former oenders. To date, White Box Enterprises had raised over $52M in blended nance (including philanthropy, government funding, investment, and sponsorship) to support ESE projects and have created over 1,000 jobs for people facing signicant barriers to employment. In June 2024 a new social enterprise commercial laundry, Beacon Laundry, created by White Box Enterprises ocially opened its doors in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, creating life changing employment for 75 local individuals. Cooper Investor’s Philanthropy made a three year funding commitment to White Box Enterprises to enable social enterprises like the Beacon Laundry.White Box Enterprises
Impact Report 2024 | 31Beacon LaundryBeacon Laundry is the fourth jobs-focused social enterprise incubated by White Box Enterprises – an organisation determined to mainstream these businesses in Australia. Cooper Investors Philanthropy is a long term supporter of White Box Enterprises and the Beacon Laundry. Amongst the rst laundry employees is Mel, a former family services practitioner who is now six months into an addiction recovery program and thriving at Beacon Laundry.“I used my last $50 on fuel to get to the job interview at Beacon. I had enough food to last me for the week. If I didn’t get this job I was going to have to sleep in my car,”“This job has rebuilt my self-esteem, connected me to community, and gives me the exibility to put my recovery rst” said Mel.According to Beacon Laundry founder and White Box Enterprises CEO, Luke Terry, “Every community needs a Beacon Laundry.”“We’re a jobs-focused social enterprise. What this means is we’re set up not only to deliver an incredible laundry service to local hotel, motel and accommodation providers, we put our employees rst. Particularly people like Mel, who may need an extra level of support that mainstream workplaces don’t provide.” said Mr Terry.Mel’s story is not dissimilar to her peers at Beacon Laundry or others within the Northern Rivers. Hit hard over the last decade with droughts, bushres and the devastating oods, the region experiences higher than average unemployment rates, around 6% compared to 3.3% NSW rate.After losing his wife to renal failure and his farm to re, John lost his remaining possessions in the 2022 Northern Rivers oods. John struggled to nd work and a place to live and as a result his mental and physical health declined signicantly. After securing a job with Beacon Laundry, John reports that his life took a turn for the better.“For me, Beacon Laundry has become just that – a beacon of hope for a better life.” said John.
Investing in the World Around UsAs of October 2024, about 8.5% of the world’s population, or almost 700 million people, live in extreme poverty. This means they live on less than $2.15 per day. Cooper Investors commitment to contribution extends beyond borders. We want to contribute to the communities where we live, work and invest. Our teams travel the globe to seek out the best opportunities for our investors and, in doing so, they can also witness rsthand the incredible work of charitable organisations making a dierence to those in need on a local level.Through our International Initiatives program, we support these eorts by partnering with trusted organisations to provide funding, resources, and expertise where they are needed most to support communities and drive meaningful change.
Impact Report 2024 | 33School of St JudeCooper Investors Philanthropy kicked o the year with a visit from one of Cooper Investors Philanthropy’s longest relationships. The School of St Jude received the second ever grant made from the CI Sta Fund. In 2002, The School of St Jude opened with one teacher and a handful of sponsored students. Today, The School of St Jude is a pioneering leader in charitable education within Africa. They provide free, quality education to 1,800 bright primary and secondary students who come from considerably poor backgrounds. They also provide students with everything they need for a successful education, ensuring thier students’ wellbeing and future success.Located across three campuses, The School of St Jude provides boarding for all secondary students and employs around 300 Tanzanian sta.100% of St Jude’s students and scholars are on scholarships.In April 2024, Cooper Investors hosted School of St Jude Founder, Gemma Sisia and two program graduates, Winnie and Suleiman. On returning to Tanzania, Winnie said the highlight of her during the trip to Australia and was meeting so many supporters that she had been communicating with and being able to put a face to a name from the database. A close second was getting up close with a kangaroo in Armidale. Suleiman also returned safely to Dar es Salaam and dived back into work as a doctor at Muhimbili National Hospital. He too loved the chance to visit Australia, to share his personal life journey and to also get the chance to visit two Australian hospitals, which he loved.Suleiman at work in Muhimbill National HospitalThank you for supporting my academic journey. With your help and support I hope to achieve my dreams and goals and also create a good future life for myself and be able to support my family.St Jude studentSuleiman and Winnie in Australia
Investing in our ValuesCI is driven by our five key valuesOur philanthropy program is a direct reection of the values that dene us. We embrace Gratitude & Humility, recognising that success is a shared journey. With Intentionality, we act with purpose, ensuring every decision is driven by clear outcomes. Curiosity & Passion fuel our drive to listen, learn, and grow. We remain In the Moment & Present, fully engaged in our relationships. Above all, we lead with Authenticity, staying true to our principles and making a genuine dierence.Natalie Elliott Head of CI Private Capital Business I see philanthropy as part of the solution. I am an unashamed evangelical advocate for the power of private capital to drive change, leverage outcomes and make a significant contribution at both the grassroots level and in social policy.Katie Hayes Distribution AssociateAt CI, the philanthropy program enables engaged and passionate contributions by our team, to causes close to our hearts. I am thankful to be part of an organisation with such a deep commitment to philanthropy.Marcus Guzzardi Portfolio Manager - Global Equities & Endeavour Fund The CI Philanthropy Program plays a crucial role in “closing the loop”. When it comes to The CI Way - we seek to partner with focussed and passionate leaders in both our philanthropic and investment pursuits.Allan Goldstein Portfolio Manager Family and Founder FundI am proud CI Philanthropy supports grassroots, volunteer-based organisations. These dedicated people and the charities they support have given many vulnerable people an education, food, shelter and a go at life.
Impact Report 2024 | 35Our Partners 2024
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