2017 CARAD Annual Report

Annual Report 2017
HIGHER EDUCATION WORKING GROUP – ENHANCEMENT
Thanks to a lot of hard work by Management Committee member Deidre Wright and her team, with cooperation from
the Perth tertiary sector, CARAD continues to coordinate combined university information sessions for Asylum Seekers
and Refugees. This provides a forum to hear about new scholarships, entry assistance and relevant information on
preparation for study. We have also introduced an Academic English Program where students are provided lessons
twice a week for twelve weeks under the tutelage of Dr Cheryl Lange and Dr Jenny Silburn. These have been well
attended and do a great deal in fostering the future of attendees. The Management Committee is committed to the
activities of this subcommittee and the logical next step is to put our energy into seeking some funding for a project
officer.
LIAISON WITH AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL – MARGARET RIVER
Because of the great work Kieran O’Brien has mobilised for CARAD in the South West, a very fruitful relationship has
developed with Amnesty International – Margaret River. Thanks to the facilitation efforts by Pauline McLeod we have
been overwhelmed with the contributions and donations that have come from their efforts. When this group decides
to achieve something, heaven help any obstacle that stands in their way. We are grateful for this very vibrant supporter
group, both in terms of fundraising, awareness raising and other support.
#COMPASSION IN ACTION
Throughout 2017, I am sure members and volunteers have noticed the enhanced messaging and branding of our
communication. Our website is now fully updated and operational (however like CARAD it will continue to evolve).
Our newsletters are fresh, informative and welcomed and our events and activity programs have been enhanced. Our
social media presence has been considerably developed and we have found our online fundraising activities have
benefited therefore. I urge all members and supporters to continue to spread the CARAD word. Thanks to social
media and our new profile this is now a lot easier than ever before. When you receive something electronically from us,
or notice one of our social media posts please consider sharing it with your network – every extra click helps make a
difference.
Can I also acknowledge the efforts of my fellow Management Committee members for their tireless efforts, it is an
honour to work with people so willing to put others first. To the Vice Chair James Jegasothy, Treasurer Dane Etheridge
and Secretary Mark Shircore thank you for stepping up to do that little bit extra. To our volunteer bookkeeper Jason
Parish, your efforts and professionalism have made a huge difference to the information we in the management
committee have to better apply governance. To our retiring management committee members, thank you for all your
efforts over the many years you have been Management Committee members, and we look forward to your continued
involvement as volunteers.
Thanks also to Melissa Goh who retired from CARAD in December 2016 after six years with our organisation as our
Office Manager.
Finally, I also acknowledge the many organisations and people who have donated money and goods to our cause.
This year CARAD has positively influenced the lives of as many asylum seekers, refugees and detainees as we
possibly can. Obviously, the more money we raise and more goods we have donated, the better our influence can
be. Whether it be through our fund-raising letters, our online initiatives or our events and activities, please be assured
that by you making a contribution we will honour that with an iron clad commitment that it will be used in its entirety to
make each and every day that little bit better for our clients.
PETER GIANOLI
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