The Risk and Safety Co-Funding program, launched by Risk Management Service (RMS) in 2016, has now contributed more than $A2 million to safety and risk mitigation projects in Adventist communities across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
The program addresses the challenges faced by Adventist entities in managing risk and safety, providing essential financial support for projects that might otherwise be beyond budget constraints. These projects aim to enhance ministry resilience and strengthen mission efforts.
In North Queensland, an Adventist church utilised RMS co-funding to improve accessibility for vulnerable members and visitors. Upgrades included improved mobility access and a new disability-friendly bathroom.
Lina White, a member of the local church, noted the positive impact of these improvements. “The safety and accessibility of our church premises have been greatly improved and risks have been eliminated,” said Mrs White.
Adventist schools have also benefited from the program. A small school in North NSW saw an increase in student enrollment and a decrease in petty crime after the installation of a secure perimeter fence, supported by RMS co-funding.
RMS also assisted an Adventist campground in Southeast Queensland to become better prepared for bushfire season by co-funding onsite bushfire mitigation and firefighting equipment. “We were able to achieve the result with less capital investment than expected, and we were able to expand the capabilities of the project thanks to the funding,” said campground manager Tim Hutton.
As a direct result of the co-funding support offered by RMS, these projects and hundreds of others have succeeded in reducing hazards and improving safety, creating more resilient Adventist communities and protecting ministry efforts.
RMS manager Jonathan Hale says RMS champions initiatives that reduce the likelihood of loss or injury. “Losses impact ministry time and draw precious funds and resources away from mission,” he said. “Insurance alone is not enough to protect property and people, so our goal for the Risk and Safety Co-Funding program is to future-proof the Adventist Church’s good work.”
Adventist leaders seeking to improve ministry resilience can apply for funding throughout the year. Simply call or email RMS to be considered. For more information, read and download the Risk and Safety Co-Funding Brochure.
