What is your role at RFW?

Hi, my name is Kim, and I’m the Fundraising Co-ordinator in our Fundraising team. My primary focus is providing personalised stewardship of our new and existing donors throughout all interactions with RFW. My role also requires database and administrative tasks to ensure that donor information is correctly captured, and that donations are processed, receipted and acknowledged in a timely manner.

I also support our amazing country Branches. RFW has 18 Branches, including four Op Shops across regional NSW, who are supported by dedicated and passionate fundraisers, most of which have been supporting RFW for over 50 years. They regularly organise a variety of fundraising activities throughout the year, from selling raffle tickets through to hosting Debutante Balls! I enjoy assisting them so they can continue to fundraise, thereby enabling more country kids to access healthcare they would not otherwise be able to easily access.

Last month I was invited to Coonamble Branch’s Deb Ball, where I was delighted to receive the young ladies as they made their debut in front of 165 proud families and friends. Events like these are really special, as is experiencing for a short time, a window into country life.

How long have you been here?

I have worked at RFW since March 2017. I began as a part-time Administrative Officer, assisting one of our Paediatricians and then moved across to the Fundraising team.

Moving from Administration to Fundraising has been an exciting career change for me and I love the opportunity to contribute each day and support our donors.

It is a thrill to be a part of the growth here at RFW and to be able to engage with and have the support of so many people countrywide, knowing that the funds being raised will help support more children and families in rural and remote communities.

What led you to work at RFW?

I have always had a passion for health and children. Prior to working here I  worked in a family chiropractic clinic. When I saw RFW’s advertisement for the Administrative role I was studying an Advanced Diploma in Nutritional Medicine, and knew I would appreciate the opportunity to work for an organisation that is so passionate about helping country kids to access the healthcare they deserve.

Describe your typical day?

A typical day for me is spent reaching out and engaging directly with our individual donors across multiple channels; phone, email, mail and face-to-face.

I am the first point for incoming fundraising phone calls, so every day I receive various fundraising enquiries, such as a Manly local wanting to run a fundraising event for RFW, through to donors who would like some information on how they can leave a bequest to RFW or people who came here as children and wish to make a donation.

Receiving donations in the mail makes me feel like it’s Christmas every day … as I open each envelope it’s a real joy to discover how generous Australians can be. I take pride to ensure that all of our donors and supporters feel highly valued and that they are confident in their decision to continue to support RFW.

What do you think makes RFW unique?

RFW is unique because of the health and educational services we can offer country kids. It is a really exciting time to be able to help make a huge difference to the lives of children and their families in rural and remote areas of Australia.

The RFW family is a close knit one of committed people bringing their skills and expertise to an organisation that has children’s health at its heart. I like feeling that I am a part of an organisation that ensures each employee feels valued and special in their role. It is a joy to come to work each day!

If you need help with making a one off or regular monthly donations, I am just a phone call away at 1800 961 001 or email at: fundraising@royalfarwest.org.au