At Morris, supporting the community means more than just financial investment, it’s about showing up and getting involved. 

Recently, our team traded their desks for a day on the tools, volunteering at Common Ground Project’s regenerative farm in Freshwater Creek. The hands-on experience gave the team a chance to connect with the land, the people, and the purpose behind a local initiative making a real difference.

This volunteer day follows Common Ground Project’s selection as the winner of the 2024 $25,000 Morris Business Class Finance Grant, delivered in partnership with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce. The funding has since been invested in vital infrastructure and capacity-building, including a new tractor, upgraded irrigation, and staff training to help grow their impact well into the future.

Founded on principles of inclusion, food education, and regenerative farming, Common Ground Project provides training, employment, and community connection for people experiencing barriers to education and employment. Their mission is simple but powerful: to cultivate a stronger, fairer, and more resilient food system, one that puts people and the planet first.

“We’re always looking for meaningful ways to give back to the Geelong region, and spending time working alongside the amazing team at Common Ground Project was a great way to turn that commitment into action. Their passion and the impact they’re making is truly inspiring, and we’re proud to support their work, not just through funding, but by showing up, getting involved, and contributing firsthand,” said Tiffany Hunt, General Manager – Marketing & Communications at Morris.

The Morris team spent the day harvesting produce, weeding garden beds, mulching rows, and learning about regenerative farming, all while gaining valuable insight into how food can build connection, resilience, and opportunity. The day concluded with a shared farm lunch prepared on-site using fresh, farm ingredients.

Felicity Jacob, CEO of Common Ground Project, shared her appreciation, “Thanks so much to all the team at Morris who came out to support a day on the farm at Common Ground Project, it’s amazing how much impact five additional pairs of hands has. As a small regenerative farm and social enterprise, our volunteers are invaluable, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their time and energy. Not to mention the epic T-shirts the Morris crew donned to bring the team vibes to the day.”

Empowering local business doesn’t end with one success story. Off the back of the 2024 Business Class Finance Grant, Morris will be launching a new Business Grant in 2025. In collaboration with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, the next chapter will focus on uncovering another passionate local business ready to grow their impact, with more details to be revealed soon.

For Morris, this partnership goes beyond financial support. Volunteering at Common Ground is a way to directly contribute to the region’s future, strengthen internal team culture, and give back in a way that’s meaningful.

Backing Business, Growing Stronger Communities.