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Madeleine has been extraordinary through her endless volunteer efforts and work with the 500 Supporters’ Group for the past 20 years. Through constant hard work and passion, Madeleine helps coordinate two successful events at the MCG every year, raising valuable funds for Ruben Centre. Thank you Madeleine for all that you do for so many people in need at Ruben Centre.
On behalf of all the ERF network, congratulations to Madeleine and her husband, Jarrod Nash on the birth of their second baby boy, Parker Davis Nash.
When did you first become involved with ERFA and the 500 Supporters’ Group?
After a visit to the Ruben Centre in my teens with my Dad, Chairman of the 500 Group, I fell in love with the people and the ability to help change the lives of the Mukuru people.
What have you seen/learnt through your involvement that you would like to share with others?The community’s dedication to breaking the poverty cycle through education is incredible at the Ruben Centre. I spent a month volunteering at Ruben in my 20s which was a daily reminder of the hope and resilience in the community. The 500 Supporters’ Group provides resources and hope for them. The fact that, on the other side of the world, there is a group who care is incredibly comforting in believing they can make change.
What inspires you most about the work?
Each lunch we hear from someone who has recently visited the Ruben Centre. You can visibly see the shift in the room when they speak about their experience and how each dollar donated changes the lives of people living in Mukuru every day. It is inspiring to see how those who attend the Ruben Centre are changing their futures.
What impact has supporting the work made to your life?
Supporting the Ruben Centre reminds me how lucky we are to have been born and live in Australia and to not take for granted the opportunities we have here.
What would you say to people thinking about how best to support Edmund Rice Foundation?
Come along to one (or both!) of our 500 Supporters’ Group lunches we hold at the MCG. You will hear about how 100% of your donation goes directly to the Ruben Centre (our administrative costs are all covered by the Committee and a long-term donor) and the incredible impact each dollar makes.
If you can visit or volunteer at Ruben (no particular skills required!), you can speak with someone at our event about their experience there and how to organise a trip over. You can sign up to be notified about our next event through our website.
