Centrelink staff give extra to the community
Victoria media release
Wednesday, 6 October 2010
Helping everyday Australians is part and parcel of being a Centrelink employee, but staff at Centrelink’s Geelong Call Centre have taken this one step further, presenting two local charities with a total of $15,000.
United Way and Geelong Animal Welfare Society were each presented with a cheque for $7,500 at a recent staff event.
"We are fortunate to work for an organisation that helps thousands of Australians every day, but the staff at Geelong Call Centre also felt it was important to give something extra to the community that they are a part of," Geelong Call Centre Manager, Pamela Ryan, said.
"18 months ago, the Make Their Day and Social Club groups at Geelong Call Centre decided to dedicate fundraising efforts toward two charities – United Way and the Geelong Animal Welfare Society."
The charities were chosen by staff for the important roles they play in the local community.
"Money was raised via voluntary payroll deductions, gold-coin donations made on casual days, as well as trivia nights and a charity auction. Everyone was very willing to get behind these 2 important charities,” Pamela said.
The fund raising effort continues, with money raised during 2010-11 to be donated to United Way and the Cancer Council.
"A few dollars a fortnight doesn’t seem like much, but as you can see, it sure adds up," Pamela said.
"The staff are really proud of what they have been able to achieve and it really is a great feeling to be able to help organisations that make a difference to the lives of so many locals."
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.