With the help of Bay and Basin Community Resources, the group holds a dinner event; Sanctuary Point SOUP.

SOUP sees community members pay $10 at the door for a simple meal of soup and salad. 

They listen to community project ideas from three or four community groups, ask them questions, then vote for the project they would like their dinner fee to go to. 

The idea with the most votes is awarded all the proceeds of the night to put towards their project. 

The winner is then invited back to a future dinner to tell the community how the project went.

“We wanted a way to do something that would help the community, but in a way where everyone could help a little bit,” Sarah Hodgetts, one of the event organisers said. 

“For people who pitch their project ideas, the benefits go beyond just financial support.

“They can also gain local support for their project, make new connections and get feedback on their ideas.”

Sarah said it’s a great initiative for the Shoalhaven and Bay and Basin Community Resources and the young people involved are encouraging the community to get behind it and provide their support.

The young people were initially inspired by Detroit SOUP, which has spread worldwide to more than 60 cities around the world, including the Illawarra.

This event will be the fourth SOUP that Sanctuary Point young people have organised, with the last one hailed a tremendous success.

The Sanctuary Point SOUP dinner will take place on Saturday, June 25 from 5pm at Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre at 34 Paradise Beach Road, Sanctuary Point.

“We want everyone to turn up,” Rhiannon Winter, another organiser said.

“The more people, the more Sanctuary Point benefits.”

To RSVP, or to find out more phone Gemma at Bay and Basin Community Resources on 02 4443 9244 or email gemmacpw@bbcri.com.au