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Our stories

A Philanthropy Model that Empowers

Monday 29 July 2024

When you become a member of the Women+ for Western Health Giving Circle, your donation is pooled with others to maximise impact.

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“I joined the giving circle because I believe in the power of collective philanthropy. By pooling our resources and working together, we can make a more significant impact on our community.” Says current member, Zoe Goodhardt, Head of Growth and Marketing at TAG

The Giving Circle's $50,000 grant supports Western Health staff-led initiatives aligned with Western Health's strategic priorities.

The projects are presented at our annual Women+ for Western Health Pitch Night on September 12, 2024, and then voted on by Giving Circle members to select a winner.

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“I very much enjoyed last year’s pitch event and learning about all the wonderful initiatives taken by our staff to improve things for our patients, their families, and carers.” Says current member, Elizabeth Kennedy, Director at Western Health.

Pitch Night is an inspiring evening and includes dinner and networking with like-minded individuals.

“The Women+ for Western giving circle allows me to be part of a group that shares my values and commitment to supporting local initiatives that drive positive change… The engagement and discussion among members at our table were also enriching, as it brought diverse perspectives and a sense of community spirit,” continues Goodhardt.

Members' donations support innovative healthcare solutions for Melbourne's diverse community. Plus, within this model of giving, when you become a member, you are empowered to vote on the project that you wish to fund.

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“The Women+ Giving Circle is a powerful way for women from all walks of life to give back and importantly, have a say in how their philanthropy will have impact for Western Health,” says Women+ for Western Health Pitch Night EmCee, Michelle Redfern, who is also the Founder at Advancing Women in Business & Sport.

Alex Potter and Jan Kilicaslan were last year’s $50,000 grant winners. The duo’s project laid out a road map for how Western Health can create safe and affirming spaces for our LGBTQIA+ communities.

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“The Giving Circle grant has been instrumental in kick-starting our approach to safe and affirming practice for LGBTIQA+ communities in the west,“ says Alex Potter.

Members donate $1000 per year, with flexible payment options: annually, monthly ($90), or fortnightly ($40).

While designed to bring together women+ in a collective giving model, this inclusive program welcomes members of all genders.

Find out more or contact the Foundation at: foundation@wh.org.au.

By giving a little, together, we can achieve a lot!

Thank you to our sponsor