People with Purpose: You get what you give

Tell us about your background in the not-for-profit sector.

My journey into the not-for-profit sector began after more than a decade as the general manager of sales and marketing for an organic skincare and aromatherapy company.

This organisation was deeply rooted in alternative health and well-being, with a strong focus on community impact.

When my children were young, I was approached to join a charity run by Buddhist nuns that supported individuals wishing to die at home. Despite having transferable skills, I initially felt out of my depth and made several mistakes.

However, this experience ignited my passion for working for a cause. I dedicated myself to improving my skills, particularly in fundraising, and have now worked in the not-for-profit sector for over 16 years.

Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to work in various roles that have allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

My experiences have taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience, and the value of every contribution, no matter how small. I've learned that finding what inspires you and taking action can lead to significant positive change.

How did you become involved with the Endeavour Foundation?

As my children grew older, I had more time to dedicate to meaningful work.

After working for a few other non-profit organisations, I was fortunate to secure the role of philanthropy manager at the Endeavour Foundation.

I truly love working here because our clients inspire me daily with their resilience and contributions to the world. They teach me invaluable lessons about life and enrich the community.

The Endeavour Foundation's mission to support people with disability in making their possibilities a reality resonates deeply with me. I am proud to be part of an organisation that has been empowering people with disability for decades.

What does the foundation hope to achieve?

The Endeavour Foundation is committed to transformative change for individuals with intellectual disability. Over the next five years we are committed to focusing on three key areas:

• Improving health, well-being, and safety

We strive to enhance the physical and mental health of our clients while ensuring they feel safe and protected.

One of our strategic goals is that all people we support are safe and feel safe from violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This commitment extends beyond physical safety to fostering environments where individuals feel emotionally secure and supported.

By prioritising both health and safety, we aim to create a foundation for our clients to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

• Amplifying their voices and expanding choices

We empower our clients to make informed decisions about their lives, ensuring they have a voice in every aspect of their care and support.

Our goal is for individuals to feel more involved in their lives and have greater choice in how they live. Whether it’s deciding where they live, how they spend their time, or what goals they pursue, we work closely with each person to ensure their preferences and aspirations are at the forefront of every decision.

• Creating pathways to open employment

We are shifting our focus from providing traditional supported employment options to helping individuals find roles they truly want in open employment.

This involves working closely with clients to prepare them for mainstream workplaces through tailored training and skill development.

Additionally, we collaborate with employers to create more accessible and inclusive workplaces, ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities can pursue meaningful careers aligned with their passions and interests.

By bridging the gap between clients and open employment opportunities, we aim to foster independence, dignity, and a sense of belonging.

What is the biggest obstacle you face in your current role?

One of the most significant challenges is overcoming societal misconceptions about intellectual disability charities.

Research shows that only eight per cent of Australians prioritise donations to these organisations, placing them near the bottom of charitable preferences.

Additionally, many people assume that all disability needs are covered by the NDIS, which is far from true. This lack of awareness significantly impacts funding and support for our programs.

Another hurdle is the misconception that the NDIS fully fund all disability services. In reality, there are many gaps in funding, and organisations like the Endeavour Foundation rely on community support to deliver comprehensive services.

What's the most important lesson you have learned during your time working in the charitable sector?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that every gift—no matter how small—makes a difference, and everyone has something to contribute.

It’s about finding what inspires you and taking action. Dan Pallotta, the author of Uncharitable, says we should encourage people to do more rather than settling for the least they can offer, and this resonates with me. Together, as a community, we can create meaningful change.

I've also learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the not-for-profit sector.

Challenges are inevitable, but with determination and a willingness to innovate, we can overcome them and continue to make a positive impact.