Doctor of Physiotherapy students at Bond University have raised a record amount for charity through their Leadership, Management and Advocacy class for 2014.
Assistant Professor Mandy Hannan said the amount raised was the highest to date for this subject.
“We are still processing cheques, but at present the class has raised a total of $6,000 which will be distributed evenly between two charities,” she said.
Recipient Heather Richards accepted the donation on behalf of Headway Gold Coast. She was thrilled, albeit a little teary, with the result.
“I’m speechless and overwhelmed,” she said. “As a not-for-profit organisation that helps people with an acquired brain injury, as well as their family and carers we appreciate all the support we can get. Thank you so much.”
Bond Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp was the second recipient of the students’ efforts. Camp convenor Sarah Rowe was also delighted.
“This assistance helps us ensure longevity for this great cause,” she said. “The annual camp is entirely student-run and is a fantastic event. It is hosted over four days in December for kids with a physical or intellectual disability. One-on-one care is provided by volunteers from Bond and they have an amazing time with the kids, while the parents get a well-earned break.”
Assistant Professor Hannan said she was very proud of the students’ efforts, which saw them organise a range of activities and initiatives including golf days, movie nights, apparel sales, raffles and more.
“We love to see ‘Bondies giving back’, but our students will also be able to utilise these skills in a real world context,” she said.
“Their motivation during this class was sensational. Advocacy is an important skill for students to learn as they will be doing a lot of advocacy work as physiotherapists, whether it’s political, business or patient-oriented in nature.”