The Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project has received a major boost, thanks to a generous three-year funding commitment from the CMV Group Foundation in support of its cornerstone program, Pit Stop.
Pit Stop provides hands-on learning opportunities for young people, many of whom attend alternative educational settings or are at risk of disengagement.
Participants gain practical skills in areas like welding, woodwork, bike maintenance, and automotive basics—including tasks such as checking oil or stripping a starter motor.
The volunteer-supported and strengths-based approach helps to foster aspiration, build confidence, and create connections that can lead to meaningful employment.
The CMV Group Foundation will contribute $20,000 annually over the next three years, building on a $9000 donation made in 2024 by the CMV Group Staff Foundation.
This earlier contribution, supported by employees from their local business, CMV Truck & Bus Shepparton, helped advance Pit Stop’s bike refurbishment program.
“Support by the CMV Group ensures Pit Stop can continue delivering real outcomes for local young people,” said Amy Robinson, Executive Officer of Lighthouse.
“This partnership goes well beyond dollars – it’s about investing in potential and helping young people find purpose, skills, and pathways to employment.”
Robinson said the ongoing investment will allow Lighthouse to grow the program’s reach.
“Our young people are the future of Shepparton. Support like this from the CMV Group gives them the tools and the confidence to thrive. We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment to our community.”
The CMV Group Foundation is the charitable arm of the CMV Group, a fourth-generation Australian family-owned business that began operations in 1934.
The CMV Group operates a network of light and heavy-duty automotive dealerships, including CMV Truck & Bus, which has eight locations across regional and metropolitan Victoria, one of which is in Shepparton.
The foundation said it is committed to making meaningful change in the communities where the CMV Group operates, and this investment in Shepparton’s youth is a powerful reflection of that mission.
CMV Group Joint Managing Director, Miles Crawford, expressed his enthusiasm for the work of the Pit Stop program, stating: “It was a humbling experience to visit the site and see the children, as well as the incredible work being done by both Pit Stop and the Lighthouse Project in the Goulburn Valley.
“The CMV Group Foundation is proud to support this meaningful initiative with a $20,000 annual donation over the next three years and trust this money will help to continue the great work being done and support the learning and development needs for many young people.”