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

Iris Foundation’s work is focused in the area of primary prevention of suicide, mitigating problems before they escalate.
We are dedicated to enhancing each and every person’s ability to survive and thrive.

Events

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.

BOOK NOW

MOVIE & STYLE NIGHT

Wednesday, 13 August 2025
5:30PM (Styling) 6.30PM (Movie)

Event Cinemas
Westfield Tuggerah (50 Wyong Road)

Join us for a unique night of fashion fun and a movie!

Styling segment hosted by Vibrant Concepts, plus a screening of ‘Freakier Friday’

Supporting our Because We Care Boutique

Tickets – $72

BOOK NOW

‘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

BOOK NOW

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.

Find Out More

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.

Find Out More

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.

Find Out More

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

A service focused on supporting women who have, or are facing adversity and are seeking to improve their lives and build their personal resilience.

Click here to go to becausewecareboutique.com

Debbie Gaunt Foundation

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 & 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.

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.

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

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4 days ago
Iris Foundation

Our monthly Coffee & Circle event at the Boutique. Guest speaker Warren of Rotary Club of Gosford North💜 ... See MoreSee Less

Our monthly Coffee & Circle event at the Boutique. Guest speaker Warren of Rotary Club of Gosford North💜

2 CommentsComment on Facebook

Keep up the good work 👍👍👍

A special treat

2 weeks ago
Iris Foundation

Today we celebrate the 89th birthday of our beloved co-founder, Bev Baldwin. We reflect on the love and dedication she has poured into Iris Foundation. While she may not always be able to connect with us in the ways she once did, as Alzheimer's takes her further from us, know that her strength and vision continue to drive us forward.
The passage of time has changed so much, the incredible legacy Bev & Dawn have created through the Iris Foundation remains a guiding light in our community.
Bev’s vision, compassion, and tireless work built something truly special—a foundation dedicated to prevention of suicide, resilience, and making a difference for those who need it most. Her impact is felt deeply by all of us, and her spirit lives in the work we do every day.
Bev, you are forever in our hearts, and your incredible legacy will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything you have given to this foundation and the countless lives it has touched. Happy Birthday, dear friend.
#IrisFoundation #LegacyOfLove #MentalHealthMatters #BevBaldwin #CommunityImpact #HappyBirthdayBev
... See MoreSee Less

Today we celebrate the 89th birthday of our beloved co-founder, Bev Baldwin. We reflect on the love and dedication she has poured into Iris Foundation. While she may not always be able to connect with us in the ways she once did, as Alzheimers takes her further from us, know that her strength and vision continue to drive us forward.
The passage of time has changed so much, the incredible legacy Bev & Dawn have created through the Iris Foundation remains a guiding light in our community.
Bev’s vision, compassion, and tireless work built something truly special—a foundation dedicated to prevention of suicide, resilience, and making a difference for those who need it most. Her impact is felt deeply by all of us, and her spirit lives in the work we do every day.
Bev, you are forever in our hearts, and your incredible legacy will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything you have given to this foundation and the countless lives it has touched. Happy Birthday, dear friend. 
#IrisFoundation #LegacyOfLove #MentalHealthMatters #BevBaldwin #CommunityImpact #HappyBirthdayBev

66 CommentsComment on Facebook

Happy Birthday Bev. A true angel in our community over decades.

I was married to Bev's brother Ricky. He was only 29 when he died. I still miss him every day. As a family they have had many tragedies of lost. I am so proud of the the Iris Foundation for all their work and support. My mother-in-law was a wonderfull woman.

Love you Bev💕

Happy birthday, Bev! 🥰

Happy Birthday gorgeous 💖💖💖🎂🎂🎂enjoy every moment xx

Happy 89th birthday dear Bev🎊🥳🎂 Such a lovely lady !!! You are so loved by all 💕💕 A beautiful photo of you and your lovely Dawn xxxx

Have a wonderful birthday Bev. You and Dawn are the best of the best.

Happy Happy birthday to dear darling Bev. such a beautiful lady 😍 ❣haven't seen you and amazing Dawn in ages ❤ all my love and hugs 🫂 🤗

Special thoughts to and of you Bev on your 89th Birthday. What a wonderful legacy you and Dawn have given to our community! Shining lights!! Beautiful sentiments expressed here say it all! 🌺🩷🌺

Happy Birthday to Bev! 🎂💐🩷

Thank you very much for thinking of Bev - she is very special.

Happy birthday to a champion in every sense of the word. Thank you for everything, Bev. x

Both very special ladies. Thankyou for your dedication to your community

Happy birthday Bev🎈🎂💕🎉

Thank you for such beautiful words about my Aunty Bev. She remains forever in our hearts despite being lost to us with Alzheimer’s💔

Happy birthday dear lady. May everybody spoil you rotten on your special day. ❤️❤️❤️❤️🍸🍸🍹🍹

Happy birthday Bev 💐 Your beautiful soul has touched so many.

Happy Birthday Bev 🎂

Happy Birthday to an amazing woman! 🎂

Happy Birthday Bev 🎂💐❤️

Happy birthday to beautiful Bev, legend of a woman! 😘

Happy birthday Bev

Happy birthday dear Bev xx

Happy Birthday Bev. Have a wonderful day and eat some cake 😘

Happy birthday Bev 🩵

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2 weeks ago
Iris Foundation

A big thank you to @coast_publishing @coastiesmag for hosting our CBWN Business After Hours Sparkle event✨last night. Lots of great connections & conversations. Your new HQ is stunning, can’t wait to check out the summer sunsets😍All ticket sales from this event will support our social cause @because_we_care_boutique_cc ... See MoreSee Less

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