Jason Bongers has joined the team at ERFA to manage the national school relationships program. Jason will build on the strong connections that ERFA has with Edmund Rice Schools across Australia, nurturing this existing network, and building new relationships beyond it.

As ERFA’s work expands to help the most vulnerable around the world, so does the need to involve Australian schools in this vital work. Connecting Australian kids in a positive and meaningful way with the human faces of poverty and disadvantage will bring untold benefits to both groups. This will also ensure that the spirit of Edmund Rice remains visible and energetic in school communities as the world faces ongoing threats to peace and justice.

Jason brings a wealth of educational experience to ERFA. Jason has taught in schools in Australia, and internationally, and has worked as an education specialist in diverse settings. No stranger to the not-for-profit sector, Jason has worked with vulnerable young people for a national service provider. He has also designed and delivered educational programs in Parliament House Canberra.

Jason and his family have recently returned from three years living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During this time Jason worked as a consultant for a United Nations office supporting the capacity of African teachers.

Having studied at St Brendan’s College Yeppoon, Jason is excited to return to the Edmund Rice family, and roll up his sleeves to support the great work of ERFA.