VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

This award acknowledges the significant and highly valued contribution made by volunteers to the fundraising profession. It honours a volunteer who has assisted through their efforts and dedication of time to an organisation and fundraising cause.

State Winners:

• Charlie Bennett, MS Queensland (QLD)

• Margaret Kelly, Foodbank NSW & ACT (NSW)

National Winner

Charlie Bennett

Nominated by MS Queensland (QLD)

High Commendation

Margaret Kelly, Foodbank NSW & ACT

Charlie’s wife Jenny has been living with MS since she was diagnosed in 1973 at just 15 years of age; he’s been involved with MS QLD since then. Charlie made the decision to stop working seven years ago and become Jenny’s full-time carer; they created a new life dedicated to the MS Community. Over the years, Charlie & Jenny together have been a force to be reckoned with. Charlie’s personal commitment, dedication and support of his wife Jenny, and many others living with MS is why he was nominated for an FIA Award. He often puts the needs of others before his own and spends his own time supporting carers and those with MS, Charlie and Jenny have dedicated their time to raise over $280,000 since 2013. To quote Charlie “MS is an arse of a disease”. He is more than 100% committed to being there for people living with MS, and working towards a world free from MS. Charlie volunteers his time planning fundraising activities as well as his weekends and evenings at countless bake sales, golf days, collections plus more throughout the year. Charlie and Jenny participate in the annual MS Brissie to the Bay bike ride. Charlie often personally raises upwards of $30K, with Jenny raising upwards of $60K each year. Charlie consistently goes above and beyond in his fundraising efforts and he and Jenny consider MS Queensland their family.