While big business is slowly catching on that life is more than just about making money, this engaging social enterprise is ensuring humanity is a key element of the economic process.

MACA is the initiative of Bendigo woman Karan Corr, who wanted to make a difference within her community by forming partnerships with other like-minded people to build sustainable businesses.

It works on linking organisations and people from all walks of life to offer employment, training or networking to people who may not previously have had access to certain work opportunities.

In three years, the program has seen partnerships form between startup entrepreneurs, volunteers, business owners and managers to create jobs and fill gaps in social welfare.

MACA aims at boosting confidence and putting humanity into business networking and operations, Karen says. The premise is simple - when people are inspired, skilled and supported they feel connected to their community. If someone has an idea they can approach MACA to gain business and networking skills to make their idea a reality.

Shannon Ryan is a great example of what can be done to help others. The social justice advocate heads up the youth-led organisation SidexSide, but she wanted to do more and knew creating job opportunities in the community was needed. Through MACA she learnt about project management, how to start a business and how to partner with other organisations on a sustainable community project.

She now manages Sidetracked Canteen in partnership with Future Employment Opportunities. At Sidetrack Canteen young people learn about hospitality skills and how to manage a cafe. They don’t want to follow an academic path but know they have a lot to offer a community in terms of social cohesion and employment. Sidetracked Canteen has been successfully operating in Bendigo’s Centreway Arcade since February.

The Advertiser applauds the efforts of everyone involved in making a change in their community. With a willing heart it can be done.

                     - Marina Williams, Journalist