Hills Business Woman Stephanie Dale is on a mission to make a difference and she is convinced that other business owners are keen to do the same.
She has been on the Salvation Army’s Western Sydney Business Appeal Committee since 2014 and took over as chair two years later.
“Having been part of the Western Sydney business community for over 20 years and having served as President of the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce I felt I was able to provide a worthwhile contribution to the committee.” She said her committee involvement had opened her eyes to extent of what the Salvation Army is doing in the region.
“It amazes me how much work they are involved in within Western Sydney. I have seen first-hand how quickly they rise to meet a need without question or judgement. To me they represent the essence of the word “community” – they are quite literally the glue that holds us together in what is fast becoming a fragmented society.”
She said with so many businesses and individuals giving generously to the many bushfire and drought appeals, exceeding last year’s Red Shield Appeal target of $100,000 will be tough.
“We are appealing to corporate and individuals alike to dig deep and help us provide a little hope for those in need in Western Sydney. The moneys are divided between the various services undertaken by Salvos here in Western Sydney.
“They range from direct and immediate financial support, legal advice and assistance, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, support and assistance to victims of domestic abuse, youth services, social services assistance, housing, provision of basic services such as money for food and community engagement to assist with assimilation for new members of the community.
“It is an extremely “hands on” approach and that is what inspires me to be so involved – I can actually go and see the money that we raise at work. There has been a lot of negative talk in the media of late in regard to the way in which various charities distribute their donor dollars.
“The Salvos are quite transparent in their distribution of funds and I am able to actually see how they work to effectively obtain the best results as quickly and efficiently as possible. I can visit their centres, talk to those they have assisted and actually see it at work – that is what encourages me to work so hard to make the launch a success.
“We have so much need right here in our very own community that the Salvos address and confront on a daily basis – the least we can do is support them financially.”
RED SHIELD APPEAL
The target for this year’s Red Shield Appeal Western Sydney is $150,000.
The funds will be primarily used to support the Salvation Army’s homeless, alcohol and other drug recovery services as well as youth services.
Funds will also be used to support a new community service run by the Salvation Army at Rouse Hill called Project CSC (Connect, Support, Community).
The CSC Project supports families of children with medically complex or additional needs practically, socially, spiritually and emotionally within the Hills.
Donations to the Red Shield Appeal can be made at salvationarmy.org.au/rsawestsyd
Any businesses which would be liked to be involved in the invitation-only business lunch at PARKROYAL Parramatta on May 22 should call the Community Fundraising team on 8644 0120 or email [email protected] WHY STEPHANIE DALE SUPPORTS THE SALVOS Hills Business Woman Stephanie Dale is on a mission to make a difference and she is convinced that other business owners are keen to do the same.
