As often happens, great ideas emerge out of a series of events that make the outcome seem almost destined. Our story began in November 2006, when Sarah O'Reilly spent two weeks in the Mother and Baby Unit at St John of God Hospital after the birth of her baby. She was suffering from severe post-natal depression.
The support she received there was just what she needed to overcome a difficult time and to get her and her baby's life back in order. It became clear to Sarah that more families needed to know about this unit and that more funds were needed to expand the small number of beds and other facilities.
In November 2008, Sarah was talking to Susan Rollanson, from Stamford Grand Hotel at North Ryde NSW, about the need for more networking opportunities in the area. Sarah mentioned wanting to make a difference to the community by raising funds for charities, especially those that can't afford a marketing budget - somewhere like St John of God Hospital. The Stamford agreed to assist.
Sarah started talking to more people and the response was fantastic. Over time, the idea developed, and Sarah realised that Networking 4 Charities was more than one person could manage. It really needed a board of people to make it successful.
In another act of destiny, Sarah attended a business networking function and met Matthew Turner, Ross Thompson and Richard Hill, all of whom were very eager to support her vision. Each person brought unique talents and skills to the board. Ross also brought his personal experience of the shortage of men's mental health services in NSW, after having suffered a stress-related breakdown himself.
Over several meetings the board was formed, the ABN registered, a Bank account established - and the rest is history, so to speak.
More people continue to volunteer their services, skills, time and donations of goods. It is inspirational to see how willing people are to contribute.
The Networking 4 Charities board is determined to take social and business networking to a new level that truly encompasses the principle of community engagement and interaction. Networking 4 Charities seeks to connect the business community and the general community, while supplying a platform to support those who work so hard for people in need.
