52 Degree Foundation
ACNC-registered philanthropic entity delivering transparent, measurable community impact aligned with metal helth issues.
Purpose
Helping Our Community is a core value of Our Organisation
The 52 Degree Foundation was established by the Romano family following a life-changing experience in 2004, when their daughter faced a serious illness and required extended care at Melbourne Children’s Hospital. During that time, the family experienced firsthand the importance of medical support services, charitable organisations and community care.
That period reshaped priorities.
What began as gratitude became responsibility.
The Foundation was created to support Australian children and families through structured fundraising, community sponsorship and long-term social initiatives. It focuses particularly on children’s wellbeing and mental health, including the Little Red Heart Appeal launching in 2025.
In 2026, the Foundation will introduce the Little Red Heart Ball — a structured annual fundraising event designed to bring the community together while supporting children’s services.
The Foundation operates with transparency and accountability, but its purpose is deeply personal.
It exists because the family understands what it means to need support — and what it means to give it back.
Giving back is not symbolic for us. It is a responsibility we carry into everything we do.
Focus Areas
The Foundation supports initiatives across:
- Children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Youth development and mentorship programs
- Education access and opportunity pathways
- Social inclusion initiatives
- Community resilience and family support programs
Programs are selected based on measurable impact, governance integrity and long-term sustainability.
Governance & Transparency
- Separate financial reporting
- Independent oversight
- Clear allocation policies
- Audit and compliance discipline
- Impact reporting
This structure ensures responsible stewardship of funds and accountability to the community.
The 52 Degree Foundation has already embarked on an amazing journey via its fundraising activities. Together with Ourgift2u, we are committed to even more rewarding and remarkable moments and philanthropic achievements.
Selected Community & Charity Partnerships