Unlocking Dreams

Saturday, 30 May, 2015, over 110 people gathered together at Hawkins Foyer room at Shore school in North Sydney for ICM’s fourth Australian dinner. The fabulous evening was filled with auction prizes, intriguing talks and a stunning view – but the highlight was a Skype call with the Philippines from one of ICM’s Transform participants, Marites. Marites shared with guests how her life has changed since she accepted the invitation to join the community Transform program. Later in the evening, Abbey, Nathan and Vinay, students at Oxford Falls Grammar School and Shore Boys school explained how witnessing poverty firsthand developed in them a passion to eradicate social inequality in the world. Malcolm Wood, ICM’s longest standing Board member, and Dave Sutherland, Chairman of ICM’s Board also spoke on how ICM’s programs are effectively reaching the ultrapoor in the Philippines. The generosity of the guests led to AUS$57,000 raised from the evening – with some of the highlights being:

• The Red Rope Horses- Charlotte sold all 20, raising $2000- this will transform the lives of 80 malnourished children;
• Sale of more than 100 Red Rope items by Beatrice, Emma and Sophie, raising more than $500, and supporting the livelihoods of more than 20 women from difficult backgrounds;
• Sponsorship of eight Transform communities, raising $19200, changing the lives of about 300 families, and three Medical Funds, which will literally save dozens of lives; and
• Generous donations going to the “area of greatest need”- be assured these donations will be used on the ground in the Philippines to transform lives.

A massive thank you to Nick Foord and Shore for their generous hospitality and great support, we look forward to seeing you all next year!  By Jessica Bean, Donor Relations Manager Did the Sydney Dinner pique your interest in visiting the Philippines with your family or organization? Please contact [email protected] to plan your ICM volunteer vacation!