Philanthropy Impact Series: Why Wendy supports Berry Street

Wendy is a mother of four, a world traveller and a committed supporter of Berry Street. From an early age, Wendy was encouraged by her parents to help and give back to others. During her time abroad, Wendy witnessed hardship and poverty and returned to Melbourne with a commitment to support children and young people experiencing trauma, abuse and neglect.

Berry Street’s Philanthropy team recently sat down with Wendy, one of our newest supporters, at a Philanthropy Impact Series event. Wendy generously shared with us what inspired her to give to Berry Street.

Why support Berry Street?

Wendy: Berry Street offers a ‘collective hug’ that wraps Victorian children, young people and families experiencing vulnerability around services. Like Berry Street, I also believe that we should do everything we can to change the system and that no young person should be left behind left behind. Everyone deserves someone in their life who can give them unconditional love and support and believe in them when they themselves may not. That’s why I chose to support Berry Street.

A life of giving leads to philanthropy

Wendy: I believe that by giving others a helping hand when most needed can lead to remarkable achievements beyond all expectations. Through that opportunity, many lessons can be learned by all – the recipient and the giver, and others along the way. A person’s circumstances don’t define the core of their character. Also, it gives me great pleasure to receive feedback that my contribution has been utilised in such a way that positive change has been achieved, even if only in a small way.

Lessons in leaving a legacy

Wendy: I learnt to give from my parents. People of their generation knew struggles more than most – there was the war, the depression, and then the unemployment and uncertainty that followed. They had to be resourceful, believe in themselves and be prepared to give anything a go.   

After my parents passed, I continued their charitable journey and supported charities connected to their values. Once I fulfilled what I thought was right on their behalf, I then became a philanthropist in my own right. It is a privilege to continue their legacy by supporting Berry Street. I feel great satisfaction that I am in a position where I can assist others.

Become a changemaker like Wendy

Berry Street thanks Wendy for her generous support of children, young people and families. Together with donors like Wendy, we challenge and change the system to improve and achieve better outcomes for all our young people – so that nobody is left behind.

There are many ways to support our work. We invite you to reach out to our Philanthropy Team to discuss how you would like to donate to us or leave a Gift in your Will.