Val Johnstone is a social worker who has developed and maintained a keen interest in health and the community across her work and personal life.

Val has generously contributed the initial endowment amount, enabling the Trustees of the Victorian Women's Benevolent Trust to establish the Sub-Fund in late 2009. The Sub-Fund is now open for donations, so that it may grow and fund as many projects as possible

If you would like to donate to the Val Johnstone Gumption Sub Fund, or to learn more about its purposes, you can download this booklet  (click on image of Val Johnstone) which provides all the information you need. If you have any queries, contact Anne Paul on 03 9642 0422 or email.

The Inaugural Sub Fund grants  were announced in March 2011.
The Sub-Fund supports projects on Indigenous women's efforts regarding health literacy in their community.

Two exciting projects have been funded.

Dhauwurd-Wurrung Elderly and Community Health Service in Portland for their International Women's Day Kuyuurn (meeting).

Healesville Indigenous Community Services Association for their Indigenous Women's Health, Healing and Leadership Circle Project.

 Val Johnstone met with members of the Healesville Group in late March 2011. As the picture above shows, with Aunty Dot Peters and Val amongst the beautiful permanent art installations, it was a special day for all.