IRIS FOUNDATION
In Resilience is Strength
Iris Foundation is a not-for-profit dedicated to preventing suicide by specialising in resilience-based initiatives and prioritising our efforts on early prevention.
We focus on prevention, empowering strengths, because we believe that no-one should feel that their struggles are insurmountable, or their life is without value. Every life is precious.
Brew Connections.
Building Futures.
At Imagine If Community Café we’re serving more than coffee – we’re brewing confidence, connection and a brighter future.
Click here for more information or visit our Facebook page
About Us
Iris Foundation is a not-for-profit committed to equipping people of all ages with skills and support necessary to navigate life’s challenges, promoting mental well-being, and creating a resilient community.
Established on the NSW Central Coast in 2006, Iris Foundation remains dedicated to working with people, businesses and partners to build resilience, hope and connections in our community.
Our Vision
A community united against suicide, where strength and support work hand-in-hand.
Our Purpose
To create a community where everyone feels empowered to face life’s challenges with courage, connection and a sense of purpose.
Primary Prevention of Suicide
We are dedicated to enhancing each and every person’s ability to survive and thrive.
Events
6 DOMAINS OF RESILIENCE COURSE
17 June 2025
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Online Course
A transformative workshop – discover knowledge and strategies needed to boost your resilience across six domains.
$100 per person
RESILIENCE FIRST AID TRAINING
2 sessions – 16 June and & 14 Jul 2025
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Blended Course
Two sessions delivered face-to-face via Zoom, plus 10 hours self-directed learning. An internationally recognised mental health certification that teaches practical skills to build resilience in others. Valid 3 years.
$575 per person
CHRISTMAS IN JULY CHARITY EVENT
Saturday, 5th July 2025
6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Ettalong Bowling Club
103 Springwood Street
Umina Beach NSW 2257
Supporting our Because We Care Boutique.
2 course meal, welcome drink on arrival, silent auctions, raffles & entertainment/dancing.
1 Adult – $60
Table of 8 – $480
MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING
Tuesday 29 July 2025 and Tuesday 5 August 2025
9:00AM to 4:00 PM
Two face-to-face workshops
Building E, The Entrance Community Centre
15 Battley Avenue, The Entrance
$380 per person
Learn to provide initial support to adults who are developing a mental illness or experiencing a mental health crisis.
‘BLING IT UP’ GALA DINNER
Saturday, 6 September 2025
6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Ettalong Diggers
51-52 The Esplanade
Ettalong Beach
Join us for a very special Charity Gala.
3 course meal, drinks package, silent auctions, raffles & entertainment/dancing.
Supporting our Because We Care Boutique
1 Adult – $99
Table of 8 – $760
Table of 10 – $950
Resilience Training, Programs and Workshops
Iris Foundation facilitates a flexible range of resilience training programs, workshops and resources that provide skills and support to navigate life’s challenges.
Connections in School
Programs and workshops 9-14 years of age
Accredited wellbeing programs and workshops for students aged 9-14.
The Resilience Challenge
Training for young people 15-24 years of age
An opportunity for young people to connect and build their resilience as they transition from school.
Flexible Training Options
Building resilience for adults 25- 90+ years of age
Cost-effective, personalised training and coaching support that fosters resilience in individuals, workplaces, groups and communities.
Our Projects
Click on project image to learn more
Because We Care Boutique
BWCB is a welcoming service focused on supporting women to dress their best and thrive despite adversity.
Click here to go to becausewecareboutique.com
Debbie Gaunt Foundation
DGF is on a mission woman feels empowered with the knowledge, resources, and support to be mentally well throughout her transitional adult years.
Click here to go to debbiegauntfoundation.com.au
Community & Women’s Business Network
CBWN is open to all women who want to network, make friends, learn, share ideas and support local business.
Click here to go to cbwn.org.au
Men’s Mental Health Committee
A newly formed advisory body is led by local people who are deeply committed to improving men’s mental health – particularly that of young men across the Central Coast.
Because We Care Boutique
Debbie Gaunt Foundation
Community & Business Women's Network
Community and Business Women’s Network (CBWN) was founded in 2018 with a straightforward purose – to connect women on the Central Coast.
Men's Mental Health Committee
A newly formed advisory body is led by local people who are deeply committed to improving men’s mental health – particularly that of young men across the Central Coast.
How You Can Help
Iris Foundation recognises the strength in us all and is dedicated to creating positive differences in our community. Your contribution gives Iris Foundation the funding and support needed to fulfill our mission to reduce the risk of suicide in our community.
Donate
Donations enable us to do what we do best – fostering resilience, hope and connections in the community.
Corporate Support
Our corporate supporters are invaluable to help us drive change. Sponsorships are available at varying levels to suit any business.
Fundraising
Host a fundraiser or charity event. We welcome your ideas and support – from the classic mufti day gold coin donations to a group event.
Volunteer
Volunteer your time or expertise to assist with admin, fundraising, events and more.
Supporting Local Programs
Need Help?
Iris Foundation is dedicated to primary prevention of suicide. We don’t provide clinical services for people in crisis.
If you or someone you know requires urgent assistance, please click the link below to view services you can contact.
Follow Us on Facebook
Another achievement and milestone that validates the quality and evidence which goes into the design and delivery of our innovative and important Cool Connections in School Program, now recognised by the Australian Council of Educational Research .
Check out the link to find out more and head to
#coolconnnectionsinschool facebook page to see for yourself the students and the work we do in this space to build resilience skills proactively in our community.
🎉🎉👏👏
wellbeingguide.acer.org
Cool Connections is a program focused on resilience and mental wellbeing, helping students build both personal and group resilience by learning strategies to enhance coping skills and safeguard their ...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
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Thank you so much to Wyong Race Club for welcoming our CEO, Chairman and Founder at Charity Race Day today, and for invaluable ongoing support. 👏🐴😃
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Thank you so much to at Star 104.5 for their vital support of our work to build resilience and strengthen communities across the Central Coast! 💪💜The Iris Foundation does incredibly vital work for the Central Coast! 🙌
More deets 👉 bit.ly/4j9fj5f
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They are amazing
Thank you Star FM !
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Looks fabulous! Yum!
Delicious !!!
Yum
An amazing event - bringing education and connection to so many.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.1 CommentComment on Facebook
Craig and Hayley Gaunt busy at Sunday event
To our wonderful community,
We are asking for your support please.
Iris Foundation is one of three entrants in this month’s Greater Bank Community Funding Program - #GreaterCentralCoast.
The final funding amounts are determined by an online public vote from 5/5/25 to 28/5/25.
At the end of voting period, the organisation with the most votes will receive $2,000, and the two runners-up will each take away $500.
$2,000 would go a long way in helping our work supporting young people in their transition to work, through resilience and life-skills training.
So, we are asking for your help to spread the word. Everyone can vote once per day, so please make your voice heard!
Click this link to vote for us www.greater.com.au/greatercentralcoast.
Remember you can place one vote per day starting 5th May @ 9am till 5pm 28th May.
Helpful hint – set a reminder on your phone to vote each day.
Sue Liptrott - CEO
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events.humanitix.com/copy-of-mental-health-first-aid-standard-ed4-winter-2025
Copy of Mental Health First Aid Standard Ed4 Winter 2025
events.humanitix.com
Get tickets on Humanitix - Copy of Mental Health First Aid Standard Ed4 Winter 2025 hosted by Iris Foundation . The Entrance Community Centre, 15 Battley Ave, The Entrance NSW 2261, Australia. Tuesday...0 CommentsComment on Facebook