DICK SMITH DONATES $1 MILLION TO ROTARY TO ALLEVIATE SUFFERING

 
Well-known philanthropist Dick Smith has today announced his donation of $1 million towards alleviating the suffering of Australians in need. The funds will be distributed via a specific Rotary program developed for this cause, which includes eligibility criteria determined by Dick and Pip Smith.
 
The program will provide support for individuals suffering personal hardship. It will be up to Rotary Clubs to identify those recognised by the local community who need support, and be willing to match the requested grant on a 50/50 basis.
 
This donation continues Dick and Pip’s ongoing relationship with Rotary. Dick has previously given a significant amount through Rotary towards the eradication of the once widespread disease polio. This project has run for thirty years and is nearing completion, polio is now isolated to a few small enclaves in remote regions. Dick joins the likes of world-renowned philanthropist Bill Gates as a major supporter of Rotary and its various programs worldwide.
 
On this occasion, the donation by Dick and Pip will be administered by the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society, for the benefit of local individuals and communities. Dick highlighted the fact many Australians suffer personal hardship, whether through accident, illness or misadventure. He considers Rotary one of the most trusted and respected charities in the world.
 
The Chairman of the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society, Mr Michael Perkins, thanked Dick and Pip Smith for their generous donation and looks forward to seeing how Rotary volunteers throughout Australia will turn their project vison into a reality.
 
“For more than 100 years Rotary has worked with communities, corporates and philanthropists to make a difference throughout the world. We now have an extra $1 million to help those in need in our own backyard and with the famous Australian ingenuity I can’t wait to see how far we can make it reach,” said Michael.
 
The program will be launched in February 2017 and full details will be made available then.