The Grace Street Project has launched the Southland 1000, an ambitious community fundraising campaign seeking 1,000 generous supporters to contribute $1,000 each towards completing the transformational community hub in South Invercargill. Each $1,000 contribution will be recognised with a commemorative plaque permanently displayed on a stunning outside forest wall at the facility, along with a personalised certificate and an invitation to an exclusive pre-opening celebration.

The campaign, which launches today, invites individuals, families, and businesses to become founding supporters of a facility that will serve the South Invercargill community for generations to come.

The Grace Street Project will provide South Invercargill with a hosted community lounge, eight flexible spaces for activities, a technology hub with training, resources for pathway planning into work or business, and a centre for building community resilience and wellbeing.

Early supporters share their vision

The campaign has already attracted support from families and businesses who recognise the transformational potential of the project.

Dion Williams, alongside wife Elly, purchased a plaque on behalf of their three sons, spoke about their deep connection to the region. "I was born and brought up in South Invercargill until I left for University, and Elly was born and raised in Bluff," Williams said.

"We recognise and acknowledge the challenges and perceptions attributed to living in the south – yet our personal upbringings have shown us the immense value to living in an engaged, caring and connected community."

Williams emphasised that the project represents more than just a building. "We instil the values of care and respect for others into our children and believe the Grace Street Project presents a wonderful opportunity for the South Invercargill community to connect and grow individually and as a community."

Stephen O'Connor of Mitre Wealth Management said he purchased a plaque because he "truly believes in the transformational potential of the Grace Street Project."

O'Connor explained his decision: "As a financial adviser, I understand that true prosperity isn't just about financial capital – it's about investing in the social infrastructure that allows communities to thrive. The Grace Street Project represents exactly the kind of long-term community investment that will pay dividends for generations. When we strengthen South Invercargill, we strengthen all Waihōpai"

Local accounting firm Malloch McClean +MORE has stepped forward with multiple plaque purchases, demonstrating significant business community leadership.

“We’re pleased to continue our long association with the Grace Street Project. At Malloch McClean +MORE, we’re living into our values of Impact and Empathy and delivering on our mission of Shaping the Future of New Zealand Business.” CEO Blair Evans said, “This project is more than bricks and mortar, it’s about creating spaces that foster growth, connection, and opportunity for our community.”

Mark Doggett, Director at Malloch McLean +MORE, but purchasing through the JMW Family Trust, said that his family had bought a plaque because "It's a great community project for a good cause.”

John Schol, Chair of Malloch McLean +MORE said that he had bought a plaque because, “We wanted our children to understand the value of supporting the community. The Grace Street Project will create opportunities and connections that might not otherwise happen, and where they are very much needed – and that's something worth investing in, for the future of our region."

A call to the entire region

Williams issued a powerful call to action for the wider community: "The Grace Street Project will bring growth and opportunity to South Invercargill. A strong and connected South Invercargill is important and valuable to the entire Invercargill and Murihiku community. We build and grow together."

The Grace Street Project team is asking businesses, families, and individuals across Southland to join the Southland 1000 and help complete this vital community resource.

How to support

To become a founding supporter of the Southland 1000:

• Visit www.thegracestreetproject.nz/southland-1000
• Complete the plaque form with your details
• Make a $1,000 donation (using "Plaque" as your reference)

For more information, contact plaque@gracestreet.nz

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