ASI ‘SMART Company’ Scholarship Fund Blog

Paul Ramsbottom - Managing Director (and Chairman of the Fund)

Julie Willett - Director Administration/Human Resources

Mick Varga - Regional Project Delivery Manager (on rotation)

Rob Needham
Community Development Officer
The Cerebral Palsy League of Qld

Recently attending Madison Down Under (MDU) from the 5th-8th August through a scholarship funded by Advanced Solutions International (ASI) provided an invaluable insight and experience into the world of fundraising.

The four days were intensive with an array of information being presented by extremely experienced lecturers and speakers.  Attending Track 1 - Development Fundamentals - provided the opportunity to meet colleagues (15 in total within the track) within the fundraising industry that are relatively new to the fundraising environment.  This track provided a solid foundation in all facets of fundraising, which was presented by Mary Love (from the United States), Sue James and Peter Coote.  The presentations via power point in conjunction with open discussions enabled the opportunity to ask questions to both the presenters and the class, and discuss ideas and suggested methods to achieve maximum fundraising opportunities.  It was comforting to know, and was echoed throughout the various discussions during the lessons, that I was amongst others facing very similar challenges and obstacles within the fundraising environment.

Input and suggestions from the class members and the presenters in relation to ideas and what had worked for them during various fundraisers was passed around which prompted my own enquiries into how I have approached various fundraising events.  In extracting the various information, such suggestions have provided me with fresh ideas and approaches to assist with both my professional and personal fundraising tasks.

On a different level, the social aspect after classes provided the opportunity to network with others outside of my specific track.  In doing so I managed to learn a great deal from many of the participants.  However, one participant in particular has provided invaluable knowledge and information and in effect has value added to my efforts in my current role as the Community Development Officer for the Cerebral Palsy League of Qld.

If there was one thing or one piece of information that stood out from all the lessons, including the plenary sessions and group discussions throughout the 4 days, it would have to be that actively listening to your donors/clients and to continually thank them whilst keeping them updated is vital to building lasting relationships.  This piece of advice is worth its weight in gold and may just be the difference in setting an organisation apart from the others.

Epping-based, Kildonan Child and Family Services, is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Trish Roath, Development Manager, Kildonan Child and Family Services, who will be attending the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s Madison Down Under conference thanks to her grant.  “Kildonan works with vulnerable children, young people and families and our work supports more than 1000 families.  Many of the families who use our services are socially and economically disadvantaged,” says Mrs Roath.  “This Scholarship will allow best practice in all areas of my work, I will be motivated and inspired to achieve the very best for the organization.  Madison Down Under is one of the best training conferences held in Australia and helping to make a difference to people in need is very important to me personally.”

Glenside-based, Royal District Nursing Service Foundation of SA, is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Tracey Brown, Foundation Business Manager, The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Foundation of SA, who will be attending the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s Madison Down Under conference thanks to her grant.  “The RDNS provides essential community nursing care to patients in their homes with up to 500,000 visits per year,” says Ms Brown.  “The Foundation supports the work of the RDNS, one example is by supporting the fleet of 200 cars which travel over 3 million kms per year.  The grant from the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund will assist greatly in obtaining extra skills which will be used to manage fundraising appeals and special events.”

Brisbane-based non-for-profit, the Cerebral Palsy League of Queensland, is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Rob Needham, Community Development Officer, the Cerebral Palsy League of Queensland, who will be attending the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s Madison Down Under conference thanks to his grant.  “We provide support and services to about 3000 children and adults with cerebral palsy and related disabilities, and their families throughout Queensland,” says Mr Needham.  “I am very fortunate to have received this scholarship.  It will provide an excellent opportunity to network with senior and experienced fundraisers as well as meet new people and learn from the best in the industry.  This scholarship will give me skills to develop and nurture existing sponsors and clients as well as gain skills in attracting new clients and developing lasting relationships.”

Adelaide-based, RSPCA South Australia, is celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Pam Whetnall, Development Assistant, RSPCA, South Australia, who is attending the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s skills training thanks to her grant.  “The RSPCA is a not for profit organisation that enforces the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, investigates reports of alleged animal cruelty and lobby’s Government to improve animal welfare legislation. We also provide a 24 hour rescue service for sick and injured animals and educate the public about the humane treatment of animals,” says Miss Whetnall.  “It’s great to be a part of this training which will allow the RSPCA to double the staff development potential and will develop fundraising capabilities so that we can continue to respond to the number of cruelty reports we receive and provide the care necessary.”

North Adelaide-based, The Mary Potter Foundation, is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Ms Michelle Jewels, Fundraising Officer for The Mary Potter Foundation, who will be studying the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s Diploma of Fundraising Management thanks to her grant.  “We raise much needed funds to support the terminally ill and their families. The funds we raise are utilised for counseling, home support and bereavement care, for the whole family, not just the patient.  We do not receive any government or church support; we solely rely on the generosity and ongoing support of our loyal donors in the community,” says Ms Jewels.  “This Diploma will enable me to broaden my knowledge extensively.  I see what I do here at The Mary Potter Foundation as a crucial role that really benefits the whole community. I am so proud to be able to further my studies, raising money for those that really need help and The Mary Potter Foundation will benefit greatly from my increasing knowledge.  I am really honored to be chosen as the recipient of the scholarship.  I am very passionate about my work and the Diploma is something I really am excited about!”

Brisbane-based, Growcom, is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Danielle Hogan, Member Services Coordinator, Growcom, who will be attending the Not for Profit Network’s Membership Roadshow thanks to her grant.  “Growcom is the peak industry body for horticulture, providing influential representation, strong leadership and smart solutions for the success of horticulture businesses,” says Miss Hogan.  “This training will help to identify areas that we can increase our member retention rates and provide ideas on gaining new members which will in turn help us to provide more support to horticulture businesses across Queensland.”

Mylor-based, Foundation for Australia’s Most Endangered Species Inc. (FAME), is today celebrating the announcement that one of their employees has won a Scholarship.

Leading provider of software solutions and support to the not-for-profit sector Advanced Solutions International has announced recipients of the ASI SMART Company Scholarship Fund.  The fund is open to professionals wanting to undertake study that is directly relevant to their work in the not-for-profit sector across Australia and New Zealand.

The Fund received applications requesting over $60,000 in funding in the June round and the panel faced some challenging decisions in making the final selections.  In total, 12 scholarships were granted with a total value of $11,000.

“We are pleased to announce these Scholarships,” says ASI Managing Director Paul Ramsbottom.  “We’ve adopted ‘Learn, Share, Grow’ as our values and awarding this scholarship fits neatly into that philosophy.  This is a practical way of living those values. We want to support not-for-profit organisations to become smarter and more effective.”

Among the recipients is Cheryl Hill, Executive Director, Foundation for Australia’s Most Endangered Species, who will be attending the Fundraising Institute of Australia’s Madison Down Under conference thanks to her grant.  “Based at Warrawong Sanctuary at Mylor in the Adelaide Hills, FAME was established with the aim of preventing the extinction of any further species of Australian wildlife,” says Mrs Hill.  “Following the conference it is my intention to create a powerful Marketing Plan for FAME that will inspire all Australians to get behind the cause of saving our endangered wildlife.”

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and valued contribution towards the Work Certificate IV Project Management course attended to by Cherie Whitty.

Please find attached a summary report of the benefits received by The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners through completion of the course by Cherie Whitty.

It has provided multiple benefits to the College:

• improvement in efficiency with implementation of projects
• and improvement in the working knowledge of the principle definitions of project management, planning and control.

The true benefits of this course will be shown with the implementation of iMIS e-Series through the College and Cherie’s project management skill attained during the course to run this major project.  e-Series will allow for our customers to be able to purchase products and services offered by the College via on line services.

Regards

Kim Keane
National IT Manager