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

 

2 sessions – 23 April & 30 April 2025
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Standard Course
Face-to-face learning

Building E
The Entrance Community Centre
15 Battley Ave, The Entrance

$375 per person

ENQUIRE NOW

MOTHER’S DAY CHARITY LUNCHEON

 Friday 9 May 2025
11.30AM to 2:00 PM

Wallarah Bay Recreation Club
Wallarah Road
Gorokan NSW

$65 per person

Because We Care Boutique Raffle –
3 tickets for $10

BOOK NOW

RFAST STARTER TRAINING

14 May 2025
10:30 AM to 1.00 PM

Resilience First Aid Starter Training
Face-to-face workshop

Building E, The Entrance Community Centre
15 Battley Avenue, The Entrance

An internationally recognised mental health certification that helps you understand the fundamentals of building resilience in yourself and others.

$155 per person

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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19 hours ago
Iris Foundation

Meet Iris Foundation — The Coast’s Quiet Strength 🤍 ... See MoreSee Less

Meet Iris Foundation — The Coast’s Quiet Strength 🤍Image attachment
2 days ago
Iris Foundation

A reminder of how YOU can make a different in our community! ... See MoreSee Less

A reminder of how YOU can make a different in our community!
6 days ago
Iris Foundation

Come visit Imagine If Community Cafe, Monday - Friday 🫶🏼 ... See MoreSee Less

Come visit Imagine If Community Cafe, Monday - Friday 🫶🏼
2 weeks ago
Iris Foundation

A little weekend reminder 🫶🏼 ... See MoreSee Less

A little weekend reminder 🫶🏼
2 weeks ago
Iris Foundation

Community Cabinet gave us an opportunity to engage with Ryan Park the NSW Health Minister at Wamberal this week to discuss the current gaps in menopause and mental health services on the Central Coast and explore opportunities to improve access to specialised care.

Dr Shauna Watts (local advocate for women’s health), Craig Gaunt (Founder Debbie Gaunt Foundation), Sue Liptrott (Iris Foundation CEO)
... See MoreSee Less

Community Cabinet gave us an opportunity to engage with Ryan Park the NSW Health Minister at Wamberal this week to discuss the current gaps in menopause and mental health services on the Central Coast and explore opportunities to improve access to specialised care.

Dr Shauna Watts (local advocate for women’s health), Craig Gaunt (Founder Debbie Gaunt Foundation), Sue Liptrott (Iris Foundation CEO)

3 CommentsComment on Facebook

Fabulous!

Fantastic!!!

Much needed.

2 weeks ago
Iris Foundation

Despite the rainy and muddy conditions, Raw Challenge on 29th March was a huge success! 💪🌧️ We had 20 incredible volunteers helping with registration, bag check-in, and the ice bath, ensuring everything ran smoothly.

Watching families and friends tackle the course together made for a truly memorable day! 🏃‍♂️💙 A huge thank you to our amazing volunteers for their dedication and energy—you made it all possible!

Special gratitude to Raw Challenge and The Doylo for their support of Iris Foundation. 🙌💙
... See MoreSee Less

Despite the rainy and muddy conditions, Raw Challenge on 29th March was a huge success! 💪🌧️ We had 20 incredible volunteers helping with registration, bag check-in, and the ice bath, ensuring everything ran smoothly.

Watching families and friends tackle the course together made for a truly memorable day! 🏃‍♂️💙 A huge thank you to our amazing volunteers for their dedication and energy—you made it all possible!

Special gratitude to Raw Challenge and The Doylo for their support of Iris Foundation. 🙌💙

1 CommentComment on Facebook

My shoes are still drying after 5 days. What a day !

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