In our backyard: Visiting Caboolture Community Action

When we say the word 'grassroots' or term grassroots organisation, what do we really mean?

These organisations are powered by local people, in a specific place, who have boots on the ground to understand the strengths and opportunities within a place - and how best to enact change and then taking action, together.

It doesn't matter how many organisations I've visited, or changemaking unicorns I've encountered - they still amaze me every time. I learn something new in every conversation, I also feel the passion and sacrifice of the leaders and volunteers. The extra hours, the weight of other's situations, the knowledge that money may run out - but the people coming through the door will not stop.

These are the unsung heroes, the people in the weeds doing the good work, the organisations supporting people doing it tough and the innovative ways they keep the ships afloat... The charities any one of us could turn to in the blink of an eye if our situation changed.

We exist to find the most hyperlocal, place-based, grassroots organisations and initiatives, unearth and listen to their stories to shout them from the rooftops, then partner with community, philanthropy, businesses, networks, governments and individuals to create lasting change in our region.

On Monday this week I went to visit Caboolture Community Action and met with their kind president, Sharin. I wrang up a week before as part of our outreach work and spoke with a lovely volunteer, asking if I could drop in and say hello the following week.

Fully volunteer run, housed in a council space in Caboolture - there were people doing laundry, taking showers, getting meals, taking naps and having a yarn. They provide a safe walk in space for individuals and families to source items and connections they need and deserve. Sharin and I spoke about the increase in individuals coming through their doors lately, but also the significant support the community provides.

The community in Caboolture genuinely wraps its arms around CCA providing non-perishable food donations, other necessities and financial donations. People who were doing it tough previously, and received support from the centre, often come back to donate or volunteer when they're back in a place to do so.

Front of Caboolture Community Action on a sunny July day, 2026

When I asked Sharin about ways to support, she let me know they're doing alright for now. Sharin told me what they do isn't much or special, but it works and I quickly reaffirmed how special, unique and important it is - BECAUSE it works.

We talked about how much joy a young boy visiting the space brought to all the others visiting, we talked about the pigeons they like to feed, we talked about their forty-year history in the most nonchalant way possible - kindness was like breathing at that place.

What's in a name... They take action. I was honoured to visit and learn about their work, if you'd like to support them too, here is a link to all the ways you can help: CCA - Helping Us