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Dick Smith donates $1million for Rotary to continue their work in Australia

Well-known philanthropist Dick Smith has announced his donation of $1 million towards alleviating the suffering of Australians in need.
Dick joins the likes of world-renowned philanthropist Bill Gates as a major supporter of Rotary and its various programs worldwide. Dick highlighted the fact he considers Rotary one of the most trusted and respected charities in the world, and thus his choice to assist him in providing support for Australians suffering personal hardship due to accident, illness or misadventure.

The funds will be distributed via a specific Rotary program developed for the cause, administered by the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society (RABS), with eligibility criteria determined by Dick and Pip Smith. RABS has previously assisted Wayne Greenhalgh, Sharon Chan and numerous other Australians victimised by domestic violence, disease and poverty.

Rotary Clubs will be responsible for identifying those recognised by their local community who need support, and be willing to match the requested grant on a 50/50 basis.

Mr Bob Cleland from the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie is pleased he was able to facilitate bringing this program to reality.

The Chairman of the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society, Mr Michael Perkins, is grateful to Dick and Pip Smith for their generous donation. He looks forward to seeing Rotary volunteers throughout Australia turn their project visions into reality. “For more than 100 years Rotary has worked with communities, corporates and philanthropists to make a difference throughout the world. We now have an extra $1 million to help those in need in our own backyard and with the famous Australian ingenuity I can’t wait to see how far we can make it reach,” said Michael.

Mr Neil McWhannell, the President of the Rotary Club of Wahroonga is delighted they will make the formal announcement at the club’s breakfast meeting on Wednesday 7th December 2016 at Warrawee Bowling Club, 1479 Pacific Highway, Warrawee NSW commencing at 7am.

The program will be launched in February 2017 and full details will be made available then. In the meantime, for other enquiries please contact rotaryaustraliacommunitycompassionprogram@rawcs.org.au

Media Contact: Michael Perkins, Chairman, Rotary Australia Benevolent Society
Phone: 0418 391 932 Email: info@rawcs.org.au


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