Vodafone Foundation - "Give Up Your Day Job"
27 November 2006 at 2:11 pm
Applications are open for the Vodafone Australia Foundation World of Difference program where four Australians will get the chance to give up their day jobs to work for their favourite charities.
The program, now in its fourth consecutive year, takes care of each of their salaries (up to $50,000) and expenses (up to
$25,000), while they embark on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change the world for the better.
Based on previous years, women are three times more likely to apply for the program than men, proving women have a greater passion for the world around them, according to Vodafone Australia Foundation Chairman David White.
White says the Foundation has had an overwhelming interest from women to take part in this program. Eight fantastic women have been involved in the program since it began in 2004. Each one of them continues to either work for their chosen charity or stays involved on a volunteer basis after their World of Difference year.
One of the three winners from the 2006/2007 World of Difference program, Natalie Bower, is spending her year working for KidsXpress, a Not for Profit organisation which helps children overcome traumatic experiences through music.
A recently formed organisation, KidsXpress teaches children to open up and confront their hurt, anger or depression
through song writing – using music as a therapeutic tool.
Prior to her World of Difference year, Natalie, a registered music therapist, was a Project Administrator for an engineering company but had always dreamt of putting her musical talents to good use.
Since starting the World of Difference program in May 2006, Natalie has been able to secure additional funds for the charity to buy equipment and has worked with almost 100 children through a series of workshops, helping them through challenging times.
“It’s rewarding to see the kids express themselves through music.
Entries for the 2007 World of Difference program open on 1 January.
In addition to a salary package (up to $50,000), related expenses (up to $25,000), successful applicants will be supported by Vodafone mobile technology in order to maximise their skills and passion to make a real difference.
The Vodafone Australia Foundation also works closely with the four successful applicants, following their progress over the 12-month period.
The World of Difference program is open to all Australians. To enter, log onto www.vodafone.com.au, follow the links to World of Difference and submit an application after 1 January outlining how your skills will make a difference to your chosen charity or Not for Profit organisation.
