Charles Darwin University (CDU) fourth year social work student, Maria Kambouris has helped community organisation Life Without Barriers to raise funds for a young disabled Territorian to buy a specially modified car valued at almost $60,000.
Maria (pictured) undertook this role as part of a 70-day field placement through CDU, in which she made an outstanding contribution to the organisation which has only recently established services in the Territory.
Special projects manager, Ewa Leydo acted as student supervisor and mentor to Maria. During her placement, Maria prepared submissions, developed sponsorship proposals and wrote press releases. She also was involved in the business planning of events and assisted in raising more than $36,000 within the 70-day period.
Maria also worked closely with the client exercising social work values and skills.
“My time with Ewa and Life Without Barriers has been a fulfilling experience,” she said.
Ewa and Maria managed three major events, secured more than 150 donations for auctions and raffles ranging from gift vouchers to a Melbourne Cup holiday package. They worked in conjunction with key political figures and prominent business people all in the name of raising money for a young man.
“It was such a great project to work on. The sense of community is really strengthened when people come together like this, all working towards a really great goal,” Maria said.
“The generosity of Territorians is just phenomenal. I have walked away with so much pride knowing someone’s life is going to change positively just by the purchase of a car.”
The young Territorian works full-time and the modified vehicle will provide him with increased independence and the opportunity to undertake interests which were previously not viable.
For more information contact Jean Packham on 8946 6853 or Coordinator Community Engagement, Linda Cuttriss on 8946 6336.