ANNUAL REPORT
Sometimes all we need is someone to help show us the way. -Jessica Brown (Founder & CEO) Contents What lies behind us and what lies before us pales in comparison to what lies within us. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAIR MESSAGE
3 CHAIR MESSAGE I’m pleased to introduce the Life Changing Experience This year’s group of Little Sisters have been through their Foundation’s Annual Report for 2015. It’s been a busy amazing development experience, and we are pleased at 5 OUR YEAR and rewarding year, and I’m particularly happy to reflect the transformations we have seen so far. on the progress the Foundation has made towards its WHO WE HELP Thanks to the generous financial support of Jetstar, we are 6 vision to grow Australia’s most marginalised girls into set to commence and complete the first stage of national strong independent women capable of taking their place in 7 OUR PURPOSE expansion of the SISTER2sister to Wyndham City Council the world. in Melbourne’s West in Victoria in 2016. Wyndham City OUR Programs 9 We were delighted to nominate long term sponsor NIVEA Council is an area known for rapidly increasing population the SISTER2sister program for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards which is an and huge demand for addition youth services. We have 10 initiative of the Centre for Volunteering. They were awarded successfully recruited and trained our Melbourne Team OUR STRUCTURE state finalists in the Corporate Team Volunteering category Leaders who flew to Sydney throughout 2015 to be trained 12 in recognition and acknowledgement of the valuable role and mentored by our Sydney Team. The most who the SISTER2sister they play in changing the lives of at-risk teenage girls. 13 program helps Expansion to Melbourne will help us raise our profile The economic environment continues to be challenging, and attract additional funding opportunities, but most important thing How the SISTER2sister and we continue to appreciate the generous support of importantly it means we can assist more at-risk teenagers 14 program helps our sponsor, and other terrific organisations. Our ability to in Melbourne, to break the cycle of poverty, neglect and I’ve learned is to attract ongoing support and funding reflects recognition of abuse, and to work towards better lives for themselves and THE LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCES the benefits the Foundation provides to those in need. their families. never forget who 18 FOUNDATION STORY We have again been generously supported by NIVEA as Our dedicated Board has continued to provide guidance, 20 THE LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCES our primary sponsor for the SISTER2sister program, and support and oversight and I feel confident we have the you are because Journey have also been supported by companies and Foundations building blocks in place to ensure our expansion is well such as Wyndham City Council, Commonwealth Bank, managed. 22 Our Team we are all different Symantec, UNlimited, Big Sister Foundation and many Finally, I would like to express our gratitude and more. We are continually grateful for those organisations 24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS appreciation to our team, our dedicated volunteers, and my and amazing in who provide the much needed funds to allow us to extend fellow Directors for their continuing hard work, energy and PATRONS & AMBASSADORS our reach and assist more young women. our own ways. 26 enthusiasm. Without the tireless efforts of our Big Sisters, HOW YOU CAN HELP This year we were one of three Australian charities chosen Team Leaders, our psychologists and other volunteers we 28 to partner with Benefit Cosmetics in their Bold is Beautiful would not be able to provide such a valuable, service to SUPPORTERS campaign in the month of May. This is a global initiative teenage girls. 30 raising funds for women’s initiatives and was a huge Where our money success. We are extremely honoured to continue our 34 comes from & Where it goes relationship with Benefit into 2016. Jamie Lee - Little Sister 36 FINANCIALS Kate Boyle Chair Life Changing Experiences Foundation Ltd Page 2 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 33 Celebrating 8 years of partnership with NIVEA! The NIVEA brand values of honesty, Our year family, love, well-being and trust, are in harmony with the social commitment to family. As such, NIVEA has locally been the proud sponsor and supporter of Life Changing Experiences Foundation (LCEF) and their SISTER2sister Mentoring Program since 2009. One of the aims for Beiersdorf, is to help improve the future prospects of young people and promote equal opportunities for all, regardless of background. This vision, which is also shared with LCEF, was the inspiration for NIVEA joining in a partnership and supporting the SISTER2sister mentoring program.
Our CEO Jessica Brown, was one of 24 community leaders to be chosen to participate in the 2015 This year we were one of three Australian charities Community Appreciation Police Program (CAPP). chosen to partner with Benefit Cosmetics Australia for their Bold is Beautiful campaign. In the month of May $10 For three days she walked in the shoes of the NSW from every brow service was donated to charity and the Police and learned about the lengths that Police go to campaign raised $200,000 which was split equally between to ensure the vital role of keeping our community safe. the charities. Other participants included Peter Overton, Liz Hayes and Catherine Harris. Due to the campaigns success it is now a global initiative We were delighted to nominate long term sponsor which we are honoured to part of again in 2016. Marnee May, our Program Coordinator was also chosen NIVEA for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards to participate in the Young Leaders CAPP program earlier which is an initiative of the Centre for Volunteering. this year. They were awarded state finalists in the Corporate Team Volunteering category in recognition and acknowledgement of the valuable role they play in changing the lives of at-risk teenage girls.
We are thrilled to commence a long-term goal, to We are excited to announce our partnership with Continuing our partnership expand our SISTER2sister program into another state. Jetstar. The support from Jetstar is enabling the expansion with the Wests Tigers We can confirm that the program will be operating in of our SISTER2sister program into Melbourne, providing from 2012, Melbourne for the Wyndham City in 2016. support for on-the-ground research and planning. Thanks to co-sponsor Kris Gale from Michael Associates, with our in-stadium and on-field branding at their home games.
Page 4 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 55 Our Purpose
To empower vulnerable teenage girls to make positive life choices for a better future
Our Vision We grow Australia’s most marginalised girls into strong, Break the cycle of neglect, abuse, poverty and suffering independent women capable of taking their place in • of Australian ‘at risk’ youth by helping them to increase the world. their belief in themselves and encouraging them to take themselves out of their present environments so they Our Mission can make a difference to their lives; Implement our programs throughout Australia. Give disadvantaged young individuals the opportunity to be temporarily taken out of their environment to • Achieve total self-sustainability to effectively support all • participate in a once in a lifetime mentoring program; our programs through innovative fundraising strategies • which will teach them how to achieve personal and community involvement opportunities. contentment and fulfillment; Provide beneficiaries with ongoing opportunities to Provide disadvantaged youth with the chance to identify Who we help develop their skills and gain work experience. • • and explore their talents and learn how to utilise these Deliver programs that are credible and through them talents to enhance their lives and be active contributing The SISTER2sister program targets teenage girls (12-18) who are ‘at risk’ due to a direct result of • make a difference to Australian youth and their members of their community; trauma, parents in jail, with an addiction or mental illness, bereavement, poverty, abuse, neglect, respective communities. Teach our disadvantaged youth strategies to deal with homelessness, sickness/disability, family breakdown, etc. This includes girls from all nationalities, Our OBJECTIVES • the emotional and physical trauma of the past, equip religions and socio economic groups. We accept girls who are in foster care, the minister’s care, them with skills to master life’s challenges and guide women’s refuges including young women who are expectant mothers, refuges for homeless Operate for the public benefit, in a charitable and them on the path to transforming their lives; benevolent way, by having disadvantaged young people young women, the juvenile justice system and young women who are in specific housing • Show young ‘at risk’ individuals how to facilitate at risk of abuse and neglect participate in a range of programs that accommodate mentally ill youth. purposeful change and personal growth by mentoring programs; • implementing self-help strategies to overcome Offer mentoring programs and opportunities within obstacles, draw on existing strengths and • the community specifically designed to educate our monitor progress. at risk youth and give them valuable positive life skills, independent living resources, risk management strategies and appropriate role models to nurture high self-esteem in Australian ‘at risk’ youth; Page 6 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 77 Our programs
Child abuse and neglect is one of Australia’s most significant social problems. Sponsored by
YOUNG GIRLS IN AUSTRALIA ARE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE, AND ARE TWO TO THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO BE ABUSED THAN BOYS. http://www.bravehearts.org.au
The SISTER2sister program is a unique year-long mentoring program combining the benefits of one-on-one mentoring with monthly fun activities and life-skills workshops designed to challenge the girls, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and tap into their limitless potential. children and young people have witnessed violence against their mothers or step-mothers http://www.whiteribbon.org.au/uploads/media/Research_series/ There will always An_assault_on_our_future_FULL_Flood__Fergus_2010.pdf be people who are A wraparound service linking girls in to additional support Participants and graduates of the SISTER2sister program there for me no services in the community as needed e.g. emergency have access to our Butterfly Opportunity Program which accommodation, legal aid and counselling services. offers mathematics/IT scholarships, work experience, matter what; children will be sexually apprenticeships, employment and much more. harmed in some way by the time even though I they turn 18 don’t realise it. http://www.bravehearts.org.au/pages/research_lobbying.php I can have a good life. LCEF intends to develop a drop-in centre based in central Sydney to provide access There were an estimated 26,062 to a range of counselling services, programs and activities to drive empowerment cases of intentional self-harm and support marginalised young women to rise above their circumstances and tap during 2010–11. More females into their unlimited potential. than males were hospitalised To do so, we require support from Mikayla - Little Sister http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset. corporate partners and interested benefactors. Page 8 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 99 A recent focus study of SISTER2sister graduates over the past 10 years found that 95 % of Big Sister mentors still to this day continue to support their Little Sister mentees; therefore the SISTER2sister is forging life long bonds.
The SISTER2sister program is a unique year long Topics covered at the Boot Camp and monthly Unlike many mentor programs the Timeline of the SISTER2sister program mentoring & risk management program designed to workshops include: SISTER2sister program continues to support empower ‘at risk’ teenage girls to turn their troubled self-defense lives around. It is an early intervention program that graduates (as needed) even after the girls year round keeping out of harm’s way addresses the deeply entrenched intergenerational • have graduated. Call for applications for Big and Little Sisters dealing with depression problems in our disadvantaged youth, and focuses on • body image/eating disorders the core underlying issues, starting with the lack of a • Early March self-harm In addition to the SISTER2sister program, participants stable positive role model. • Big and Little Sister information night grief and loss and graduates of the program have access to our • Butterfly Opportunity Program which offers mathematics/ The aim of the SISTER2sister program is to break the • healthy body healthy mind Mid March generational cycle of suffering by helping at risk teenage cooking healthy meals on a tight budget IT scholarships, work experience, apprenticeships, • Selection day girls to make better choices for a positive future and to • fitness employment and much more. equip them with skills for mastering life’s challenges. • anger management The Girls also have access to our Butterfly Support Early April resilience Each of the girls in the program is assigned a Big Sister • program which is a wraparound service linking girls Big Sister training weekend goal setting mentor as a positive female role model to provide support, • in to additional support services in the community as job interview skills and resume writing guidance and advice throughout the program. • needed e.g. emergency accommodation, legal aid and Mid April • goal setting counseling services. Big and Little Sister matching process Big Sister mentors attend a comprehensive two day training tapping potential • Big and Little Sister graduates stay in regular contact course which equips them with the requisite skills and and much more. Late April • with Life Changing Experiences Foundation. We have a information to ensure that they can handle the various The objective of all workshop sessions are closely linked to 4 Day Butterfly Boot camp • very strong “Sisterhood” alumni with many Big and Little issues which may arise. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human needs. Girls are encouraged (Introduction of mentoring pairs) to get out of their comfort zones and set goals they never Sister graduates continuing to support the Foundation by Big Sisters and Little Sisters are then matched with factors dreamed that they could achieve (e.g. complete their HSC, attending fundraising events and raising awareness in the taken into consideration including personality, location, April-November go to university or travel). With increased confidence and wider community. hobbies and age. Monthly Big Sister meetings the support of their Big Sister mentor the girls begin to take The SISTER2sister program has changed the lives of over The formal program commences in April with a four on new challenges which in turn increase confidence. At 430 girls. We anticipate that our Little Sisters will blossom April-November day Butterfly Boot camp, where the Little Sisters meet monthly sessions each girl in turn shares her progress with and emerge as Big Sister mentors, positively contributing Monthly outings, workshops and fun activities their Big Sister mentors and together attend various risk her personal goals and the group shows their support. to the community and providing further significant evidence management seminars to learn the necessary skills for Late November During the program Big Sisters meet once a month with that this program is truly “Life Changing”. survival and coping in difficult circumstances together Team Leaders and psychologists to discuss the progress Graduation and exit interviews with team building workshops to challenge the girls and of their Little Sister. Big Sisters provide a monthly written encourage them to work together towards goals. report on their Little Sister to the Team Leader. Issues are The Program continues from April to November with discussed and Big Sisters are supported with professional monthly risk management workshops, “Life Changing advice from the psychologists. Experiences” to provide rewarding and unforgettable At the conclusion of the program in late November, there It never ceases to amaze me just how much the Girls grow and experiences and to boost the girls’ confidence and self- is a Graduation Ceremony to celebrate completion of the esteem and valuable one on one time with their Big Sister. blossom in such a short period of time. Who can even imagine just SISTER2sister program. Parents, carers and sponsors how much our Butterflies will achieve after seeing what they have are invited to attend. Little Sisters speak about their experiences and receive their graduation certificate. accomplished in such a short space of time? Louise - Team Leader
Page 10 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 1111 Community support services that nominate ‘at risk’ girls
Various school Community juvenile welfare counsellor services justice Agencies
who the SISTER2sister Organisation program helps To support and nurture our underprivileged and disadvantaged The primary cause being addressed are teenage girls at These are the actual statistics of the girls who participated youth by breaking the cycle of suffering and experience as a risk of neglect and/or physical, sexual, emotional abuse, in the 2015 program, highlighting the need for the result of abuse, neglect and various trauma and reversing the circumstances of poverty, cultural isolation, disability, SISTER2sister program. detrimental effects of low self esteem by teaching them vital tools exposure to substance abuse and/or terminal illness among to create the future of their dreams. other issues. Also addressed, is a lack of a positive role model, the inability to envisage a life outside their present circumstances, and the lack of motivation/inspiration of participants see a psychiatrist enabling them to learn new skills, overcome obstacles and or counsellor thus break the cycle. 82 % According to the Australian Childhood Foundation- Child Abuse Prevention Research Australia, the do not feel safe in their own home consequences of child abuse and neglect can be long 59 % FUNDING term and severe, with physical and mental illness, substance misuse, teen pregnancy, debilitated social Mentoring Program OPPORTUNITIES functioning, evidence of developmental delay and impairment, cognitive and neurological impairment, are bullied at school or online SISTER2Sister is a year-long mentoring initiative that empowers Corporate sponsors low academic achievement, delinquency and adult 77 % Australia’s marginalised teenage girls aged between 12 and criminal behaviour, subsequent victimisation of their grants 18, who are ‘at risk’. Matched with ‘Big Sister’ role models the own children and premature death. Parents or other program takes the girls and their mentors on ‘life changing’ donations care givers who live in a family where there is intimate have been admitted to a child/ experiences, which help to build their confidence, make positive partner violence or who experience mental illness, drug fundraising events and alcohol addiction or other contextual stressors 32 adolescent mental health unit life choices and show them a better path in life. with less social support mechanisms are more likely to % abuse and neglect their children.
The Australian government’s Social Inclusion policy based have needed foster care or crisis on the Tony Vinson research on disadvantage in Australia 41 accommodation compiled in the book ‘Dropping Off The Edge’ highlights % the need to provide youth around Australia with access to opportunities to reengage them into mainstream society and ensure they are equipped with the skills to be positively do not have an adult in their contributing members in their respective communities. household who encourages them to 32 % attend school
Fundraising Campaign are identified as High Risk of having or developing significant 91 psychological disorders “Step Up For Sisters In Need - Help to Stamp Out Abuse & % 1 www.whiteribbon.org.au Neglect”. A fundraising campaign to help raise vital funds to help 2 the SISTER2sister program. www.aifs.gov.au 3 www.bravehearts.org.au
Page 12 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 1313 HOW the SISTER2sister program helps
Continuously strive to reach limitless potential, personal growth and transformation, well-being, empowerment, fulfilment, inspiration to others, positively contributing back to the community.
Tutoring scholarships, work experience, career path assistance, money matters and financial literacy, resume writing, interview skills and employment opportunities.
Building confidence and self-esteem, social and dining etiquette, goal setting, time management, cooking on a tight budget, money management.
Self-care, Zumba, yoga, fitness, body image, nutrition, female health and personal hygiene.
We build strong support networks around them, social inclusion, counselling and workshops to help them with anger management, grief and loss, online safety, conflict resolution, harm minimisation, depression, anxiety, self-harm etc.
We educate girls of emergency services, personal protection and teach vital skills such as self-defence and tools for building resilience.
We ensure the girls have their basic needs met such as food, water, clothing, safety, shelter and healthcare.
Page 14 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 1515 Evaluation Your resilience and ability to learn from your experiences and those of others has been your strength and an inspiration to others. Results Jane - Team Leader 86 % 77 % 86 % 91 % of girls reported aN of girls reported of girls reported of girls felt improvement in peer a reduction in a reduction in that the program problems emotional distress/ hyperactivity and improved their (such as bullying, social isolation, having ‘one good friend’) problems concentration issues emotional resilience, across one or more measures (such as depression, anxiety, (such as finishing tasks, thinking before acting, fidgeting, nervous, headaches, ‘I have many fears’, ‘I worry a lot’) easily distracted, restless, overactive) behaviour, life skills, education attainment and self belief 59 % 60 % 54 % of girls reported a of girls who took of girls were more reduction in conduct/ drugs or drank considerate of others (kind to younger children, helpful if someone is hurt, shares behavioural issues alcohol had reduced with others, volunteers to help teachers/ parents) (such as anger management, fighting, lying & cheating, stealing, disobedience) or stopped as a result of the program
Page 16 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 1717 Overview THE LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCES FOUNDATION STORY
Founded in 2003, the Life Changing Experiences Founder Jessica Brown’s career began teaching high prestigious awards including the City of Sydney Business • Foundation Ltd is a registered Australian charity, school music in the South Western Suburbs of Sydney. Awards-Community and Social Services category 2011, based in Surry Hills, Sydney, NSW with She built a very successful performing arts unit which and the NAPCAN Play Your Part Award for Outstanding DGR* status. gained her a state award for the National Excellence in Initiative in 2013. In 2011, Jessica and Marnee co-produced Teaching Awards. Jessica had a great rapport with the most a cook book called “Cooked With Love-Recipes My Mother ABN: 13106098926 challenging of students, and could see from their behaviour Taught Me” to raise money for the Foundation, and most www.lifechangingexperiences.org that they needed extra support and quite often someone recently Marnee paved her way as an emerging young The Foundation’s core initiative is the to help them pick up the pieces of their lives. Too often she leader as a NSW Finalist in the 2014 Pride of Australia SISTER2sister program, a year long mentoring saw the devastating effects of abuse and neglect and the Medal Awards in the Inspirational category. • detrimental impact it had on learning, the development of and resilience program for Australian The duo were joined by part time Welfare Manager and social skills and the ability to reach ones potential. Often marginalised girls. counsellor Linda Beuzeville in 2013 who oversees the their parents were also victims of abuse and neglect. The Foundation provides services in the Sydney wellbeing of the girls in the SISTER2sister program and Metropolitan and Greater West region. Determined to break this cycle, Jessica founded Life facilitates the Foundations Butterfly Support Services • Changing Experiences Foundation in 2003 to help combat program. In addition to her counselling role Linda has The Foundation is not currently the mammoth task of breaking the cycle of deeply volunteered for the past five years, and still currently • government funded. entrenched inter-generational social issues including volunteers as a Team Leader and Advisor for the In 2016 the SISTER2sister program has abuse, neglect, poverty, addiction, mental health, domestic SISTER2sister program. Her commitment to the community expansion plans to roll out in the Wyndham City violence and teen pregnancy. With girls being 2-3 times earned her a NSW Volunteer of the Year Award in 2012. • more likely to be sexually abused than boys*, Jessica set Council LGA in Victoria. Despite being an award winning organisation, the Goals for out to empower young vulnerable girls to make positive Foundation’s biggest and most outstanding achievements The Foundation maintains policies and choices for a better future for themselves and the next are the long term positive benefits of the SISTER2sister your future: procedures that comply with the benchmark generation, through her mentoring and resilience based • program and the impact it has on young marginalised program SISTER2sister. standards as defined by the Office for Children, Australian women. This includes girls being the first in the Children’s Guardian. Eleven years later, the SISTER2sister program has changed generations to hold down a job, or the first in their family Become an The Foundation currently has two full time the lives of over 430 girls in New South Wales and Victoria. to complete high school. Most importantly the program staff members and oversees 100+ volunteers With a proven track record of positive long term change now has an 12 year proven track record of breaking the astronomer and • each year. there is high demand for Jessica’s program to roll out cycle of abuse and neglect in the Australian Community. throughout Australia, and even internationally. Still to this day Founder Jessica Brown stays in touch with inspire young girls The SISTER2sister program has directly helped each and every one of the girls who have been through the Jessica’s vision to help Australia’s most marginalised girls change the lives of 430 girls over the past SISTER2sister program. to be their best. • 12 years. grow into strong independent woman capable of taking their place in the world has earned her many awards *Bravehearts Inc-Child Sexual Assault Facts and Statistics Also, to try to help including NSW Woman of the Year-People’s Choice Awards Report December 2012 * (Deductible Gift Recipient) 2013, NSW Finalist for the Australian of the Year Awards 2011, and the Pride of Australia Medal-Role Model category women who have in 2006. lost their way and The Foundation was joined by Marnee May in 2009, who now coordinates the SISTER2sister program. For the past need help. five years the duo have been the engine room behind the Ashleigh - Little Sister Foundation’s success. The Foundation has won numerous Page 18 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 1919 THE LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCES Journey 2011 The Foundation ran it’s 8th successful SISTER2sister program 2013 in Sydney in partnership with 2005 The Foundation ran its 10th NIVEA. With volunteers ready to go, Jessica successful SISTER2sister program Jessica and Marnee co-wrote their lobbied relentlessly in Parliament in partnership with NIVEA. first book to raise funds for the House in Canberra to obtain 2007 The Foundation launched the Foundation. government funding whilst still LCEF celebrates 5 years! The inaugural Step Up for SISTERHOOD teaching. Foundation ran it’s 4th successful Kerri Pottharst joined the Day, a national fundraising Foundation as She formed a fundraising committee SISTER2sister program with campaign. an ambassador. and in nine weeks the Foundation 50 girls. Funding success was 2009 Linda Beuzeville joined as a part LCEF won the City of Sydney put on its first fundraising ball which achieved again with The Life The Foundation ran it’s 6th time employee to oversee the Business Awards for Community funded the second SISTER2sister Changing Ball. Patron Jacinta successful SISTER2sister program welfare of the girls in the program. and Social Services. program for 40 girls which was a wrote ‘Some Girls Do’ with part with 50 girls. Kate Boyle appointed as new huge success. proceeds going to SISTER2sister. Jessica was a NSW finalist for the The SISTER2sister program ran a Chairperson of the Foundation. The Foundation outgrew it’s prestigirous Australian of the Year In December Jessica received news pilot program of SISTER2sister in Tracey Spicer joined the Foundation to say she was successful in her bid shared office and moved to it’s first Awards. 2015 independent office in Surry Hills. Melbourne Victoria. as an ambassador. for Federal Funding for three years. Jessica was selected as the NSW Government funding dried up and LCEF won a national NAPCAN Play The Foundation ran it’s 12th Jessica was runner-up of the face of the Commonwealth Bank’s The Foundation also successfully we engaged our major corporate Your Part Award for Outstanding successful SISTER2sister program. 2003 achieved DGR* status. National Leadership Achievement Local Heroes program launch. Award for Women with the partner NIVEA. Prevention Initiative. Longterm partner NIVEA were Jessica Brown founded Life Australian Centre for Leadership Disaster struck and GFC hit, Jessica won the Citizen of the Year awarded NSW finalists in the NSW Changing Experiences Foundation Women. Corporate donations drastically with the Woollahra City Council Volunteer of the Year Awards in whist teaching. the Corporate Team category. This Jessica won the Manly Daily reduced. Citizens Awards. was an initiative of the Centre for Life Changing Experiences Centenary Medal for Outstanding The Foundation was unable to Jessica won the NSW Woman of Volunteering. Foundation’s first office was a Service to Education (Jessica was continue the Melbourne program the Year Award – People’s Choice garden shed. the youngest ever medal winner). due to lack of funds. Community Hero. Thanks to Jetstar, the commencement and completion of the first stage of National expansion of the SISTER2sister program took 2012 place, ready for implementation on the ground in Melbourne in 2016 in The Foundation ran it’s 9th the Wyndham City Council area. successful SISTER2sister program LCEF was one of three chosen in partnership with NIVEA. charities nationwide to partner with The SISTER2sister Team Leaders Benefit Cosmetics for their Bold won a Team Volunteering Award is Beautiful campaign which took 2004 2006 2008 2010 with the NSW Volunteer for the Year place in May. This is now a global Awards. initiative. Jessica ran her first pilot program Jessica left teaching to fully The Foundation ran it’s 5th The Foundation ran it’s 7th of SISTER2sister with just 16 girls immerse herself in the Foundation, successful SISTER2sister program successful SISTER2sister program which was a huge success. employed a full time assistant and with 50 girls. in Sydney in partnership with She funded the program herself moved into a shared office space. Funding again via the successful NIVEA. from her teaching wage and The Major fundraising Life Changing Life Changing Ball. Marnee May joined the Foundation presented at Rotary meetings most Ball attracted 500+ guests and was A very generous donor enabled the as the Program Co-ordinator. nights to beg for donations. a huge success and continued to purchase of Gus the Butterfly Bus Jessica applied for DGR* status do so for the next three years. to transport our girls and equipment so the charity could apply for Sarah Wilson and Bianca Dye joined to SISTER2sister events. 2014 corporate funding. the Foundation as ambassadors. Natalie Bassingthwaighte and her ABC Stateline featured a The Foundations first SASSI teams sister Nicky became ambassadors 10 year reunion of SISTER2sister documentary on the Foundation were formed (Sisters Aiding the for the Foundation and wrote a took place. and Jessica was inundated with SISTER2sister Initiative). book called ‘Sisterhood’ with The Foundation won (from over people wanting to help. Jessica won the Pride of Australia proceeds going to 1000 charities in NSW) funding Jacinta Tynan joined as patron of Award. our charity. from Jetstar which provided seed the Foundation. Jessica won the Zonta Women of funding to roll the SISTER2sister Achievement Award Find peace from program out to Melbourne in 2016. Crucial funding was raised from within and continue Step Up for SISTERHOOD Week. The Foundation ran it’s 11th successful SISTER2sister program to dream big. in partnership with NIVEA. Rachael - Little Sister Chairperson Kate Boyle won the Corporate Volunteering Category in the 2014 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. LCEF were finalists in the Criterion * (Deductible Gift Recipient) Impact Measurement Awards for achievements in Impact Measurement by a small Not-for-Profit.
ANNUAL REPORT 2015 Our Team I feel honoured that I was able work with such an inspiring group of young women. You have all shown strength and courage in everything you have done this year. You have so much ahead of you, and I know you can achieve anything you put your minds to. Marnee May
Jessica Brown Marnee May LINDA BEUZEVILLE FOUNDER AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE PROGRAM CO-ORDINATOR WELFARE MANAGER OFFICER Marnee is the SISTER2sister program Linda is a qualified and registered Jessica Brown has worked with Co-ordinator at Life Changing counsellor, her path into working as disadvantaged youth for more than Experiences Foundation. Running a counsellor grew from her own life 20 years. She officially founded Life the year long mentoring program experiences and the desire to help Changing Experiences in 2003. for disadvantage teenage girls from across the Sydney others in the community. She worked at a private treatment metropolitan area and surrounds. Marnee originally studied centre in Sydney for mood disorders and addictions for The SISTER2sister program is the core initiative of the Fashion Design and Technology at Ultimo Tafe. many years alongside her private practice on the Northern Foundation. It is a year-long mentoring and resilience Beaches. She also has over 20 years experience managing program which matches marginalised girls with professional A change of circumstances created an opportunity to join a construction business. women from the community. This early intervention the Life Changing Experiences team in 2009 as an office program is designed to break the cycle of deeply administration assistant, progressing into her current role Linda initially came on board with Life Changing entrenched inter generational social issues, with the long over the past 5 years. Marnee has an active role in all areas Experiences Foundation as a volunteer in 2009 and since term goal of building a better future for the next generation. of the Foundation, from program planning and facilitating, 2013 has been employed part time as the Welfare Manager Goals for Together with their mentors, girls attend an intensive risk recruitment and training mentors and managing logistics for the SISTER2sister program, overseeing the Little Sister’s management course to build resilience and empower across both the program and Foundation. welfare needs in the current program as well as liaising with positive change. Big Sisters throughout the year. In addition to the current your future: As well as being fortunate to work with hundreds of year’s mentees, Linda manages the Butterfly Support So far she has raised close to $6,000,000 for the volunteers and the SISTER2sister beneficiary’s, Marnee Program, assisting the Little Sisters from previous years Foundation and for the past decade has managed to has been part of successful fundraising initiatives and their families. Linda is passionate about her work with To be a happier, achieve incredible results through the SISTER2sister such co–editing the Foundation Cookbook ‘Cooked the girls in the program and has seen firsthand, many times program with just two full time staff. with Love’ and fundraising events such as Step Up for over, the impact the program can have on the girl’s lives. healthier version of SISTERHOOD Week. Marnee is passionate about working with youth and myself that is more providing them with the tools, encouragement and opportunities to make positive life choices. Marnee mindful of others, has been recognised for the work she has done at Life Changing Experiences Foundation by receiving nominations and to enjoy life to for the Hesta Community Sector Award, under the Organisation category and was awarded as NSW finalist in the fullest. the Inspiration category for the Pride of Australia Award. I hope to find a job where I can make a difference and that I love. Ebony - Little Sister Page 22 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 2323 BOARD OF DIRECTORS No one gets through life without facing adversity so it’s important to remember that it’s not what happens to you in life, but how you deal with it that really counts. Leanne - Team Leader
Jessica Brown Kate Boyle Mychelle Vanderburg Beth is passionate about improving everything she FOUNDER AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE CHAIR gets involved in by focusing on the possibilities. She is DIRECTOR OFFICER constantly looking to improve herself and others. In her Kate has been a Director since 2011 Mychelle has been a Director transformation role at NAB Wealth she works on improving Jessica Brown has worked with and was elected chair in 2013. since 2011. engagement, skills and processes and is actively building a disadvantaged youth for more than Kate Boyle is an experienced solicitor world class finance organisation. 20 years. Jessica’s personal goal, to Over the past 20 years, Mychelle has and risk manager, with a particular interest in strong reach out and help alleviate the suffering of disadvantaged held a series of senior marketing roles in companies such Beth is excited about working with the Life Changing corporate governance practices. Kate has an MBA from and marginalised youth, led her to form the Life Changing as The Freedom Group (Freedom, Captn’ Snooze, Guests Experiences Foundation to bring a more positive future for Macquarie Graduate School of Management, and is an Experiences Foundation (LCEF) in September 2003. and BaySwiss), Strandbags Group (including eQUIP) Levi’s marginalised girls through the SISTER2Sister program. It is accredited company secretary. Her experience spans over and Bose. the opportunity to work in this space that drew her to our Jessica’s career started with teaching music in secondary ten years across a range of public and private organisations Foundation as a director. schools after completing a degree in music education at including Macquarie Bank, Deloitte and NAB. Mychelle Vanderburg is currently the Youth Publisher at the University of New South Wales. Her 10 years teaching Pacific Magazines. As Group Publisher, Mychelle has P&L Kate’s current role is heading up the Change function in experience together with her unwaivering devotion to her responsibility for all projects as well as developing the NAB’s Wealth division. Her responsibilities include strategic Amanda Wilson students in both private and public secondary schools market and business strategy for all her titles which include and operational management, with a key focus on staff led to her many achievements, including the Foundation’s Girlfriend, Total Girl and K-zone magazines. She works DIRECTOR engagement and change management. Kate’s previous highly prestigious National Excellence in Teaching Award in directly with decision makers and manages a large team of roles include specialisations in conflicts management, Amanda Wilson is Executive Director 1998 for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching in NSW. editorial and marketing experts. regulatory relationship management, audit and assurance Community Engagement and Jessica has passionately dedicated the past 20 years to activity, administrative law and meetings practice Mychelle loves working across the youth titles she manages Communications for the Barangaroo teaching and mentoring youth and is an active advocate for and procedure. and she has a natural affiliation with the youth of Australia. Delivery Authority and is a non-executive children’s rights and their protection. This is demonstrated in the work and partnerships she director. She worked as a journalist for more than 40 years Kate’s involvement with Life Changing Experiences has implemented between retailers she’s worked with and and is the former Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald, the The SISTER2sister program is the core initiative of the Foundation includes experience as a Big Sister in 2008, associations she built with the Children’s Cancer Institute of first woman in 184 years of publication to do so. Foundation. It is a year-long mentoring and resilience consulting on strategy and governance matters, and Australia, CANTEEN, Inspire Foundation and the Butterfly program which matches marginalised girls with professional fundraising and events management including leading the She has also worked as a journalist for The Australian and, Foundation. She recognises the importance of making role model women from the community. This early first ever SASSI team. in Britain, for the Financial Times, The Times, The Sunday a difference to the young people’s lives and is extremely intervention program is designed to break the cycle of Times and the Sunday Express, and for The South China excited to be involved on the board and continue her work deeply entrenched inter-generational social issues, with Clynton Bartholomeusz Morning Post in Hong Kong. She spent a year in Beijing as on youth initiatives. the long term goal of building better futures for the next DIRECTOR a Thomson Foundation Fellow. generations. Together with their mentors, girls attend Clynton joined as a Director in 2014. Beth Lawson Amanda joined the board of Life Changing Experiences intensive risk management courses to build resilience and DIRECTOR Foundation in May 2014. She is also on the board of Clynton is an experienced marketer empower positive change. Crime Stoppers NSW, and is a member of the Wicking of globally recognised brands and Beth joined the board in 2014. So far Jessica has raised close to $6,000,000 for the Trust’s Strategic Review Panel, which advises on grants for products. He is Managing Director for Beiersdorf Australia Foundation and for the past decade has managed to Beth has over 20 years experience research into ageing and Alzheimer’s. Ltd, responsible for business in both Australia and New achieve incredible results through the SISTER2sister in Financial Services with particular Zealand. Now serving over 20 successful years for program with only two full time staff. expertise in insurance and investments. She is the General the company. Manger, Finance Transformation in the Wealth division Clynton is also the Immediate past Chairman of ACCORD, of NAB and is a director of numerous subsidiary boards the industry association that acts as the national voice of of NAB. She has technical expertise in finance, actuarial the hygiene, cosmetic, and specialty products industry. analysis and risk management but has distinguished herself as an executive by developing, mentoring and coaching others. Page 24 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 2525 Bianca Dye She has written three books about eating disorders, Ambassador including ‘Why Can’t I Look the Way I Want? Overcoming Eating Issues’, which have helped thousands of people Bianca Dye is best known for her role as understand the dynamics of eating disorders from early a morning presenter on Nova 96.9 FM. warning signs through to the recovery process. Her fourth While presenting on Nova, she became book ‘It Will Get Better; Finding Your Way Through Teen the only female radio presenter to win Issues’ aims to help teenagers find their way through the Best Radio Personality in a capital city market two years in maze of emotions and challenges facing them today as a row, in 2005 and 2006, and was nominated again in 2007. well as providing a deeper level of awareness for parents Bianca then left Nova to travel overseas and develop her and carers. PATRONS & AMBASSADORS breakfast radio career and pursue her dreams of hosting her own TV show. Having devoted several years to interviewing teens and young adults who have suffered through hardship, Bianca’s transition to television began with her appointment Melinda is attuned with the struggles young people face as anchor for Access All Areas on Foxtel’s Arena channel. and believes that by increasing their knowledge and She interviewed many big names, including Quentin awareness, they will better be able to develop strategies to Tarantino, Madonna, Heath Ledger, Daryl Hannah, Ricky face and overcome challenging issues and recognise their Martin and Russell Crowe. In addition to hosting and enormous potential. interviewing, Bianca worked behind the scenes writing and producing for the show. Kerri Pottharst Ambassador Jacinta Tynan Not only has she enjoyed a successful music and acting Bianca has been a regular feature writer for the travel section for OK! magazine. She has also written popular Patron career, Natalie and her sister Nicky Moore co wrote a Kerri Pottharst is without question, weekly columns in the Daily Telegraph’s SLM and NW. book called ‘Sistahood-a journal of self discovery’ in one of Australia’s most popular female Jacinta Tynan is a News Presenter Her first book, ‘Playing Hard to Get’, was co-written with 2008, donating a percentage of their royalties to the sporting personalities. Renowned with Sky News Australia and worked Dr Cindy Pan. SISTER2sister program. for being the best Indoor and Beach previously as a Reporter/Presenter with Volleyball player Australia has ever produced, Kerri ABC TV. Her first book, ‘Good Man Tracey Spicer Sarah Wilson Pottharst’s knows what it takes “to be the best.” In fact, Hunting’, a memoir about looking for love in your thirties, Ambassador Ambassador her motto is “How can I make it better?” Kerri has drawn received critical acclaim and spurned a popular weekly Tracey Spicer is one of the most on her mental toughness to overcome fear, doubt, pain and column for the Sunday Telegraph about contemporary life Sarah Wilson is a NYT best-selling versatile journalists and presenters in the ongoing pressure of great expectations the most of and love. Her second book, ‘Some Girls Do. My Life as author, blogger and wellness coach the country, with a portfolio spanning which she places on herself. Her incredible sporting career a Teenager’ is an anthology of female Australian authors whose journalism career has spanned television, radio, newspapers, included 3 Olympic Games, a Gold and Bronze Olympic writing the true story of their adolescence. All royalties were 20 years, across television, radio, magazines, and online media. During her 25-year career, medal, inclusion into the International Volleyball Hall of donated to SISTER2sister. Jacinta was a Big Sister in 2006 magazines, newspapers and online. She’s the former editor she has anchored news, current affairs and lifestyle Fame, being nominated Team of the Decade and 25 podium and is now the Program’s Patron. of Cosmopolitan magazine and was the host of the first series of MasterChef Australia, the highest rating show in programs in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. She is best finishes over 8 years on the World Beach Volleyball Tour. known for presenting Channel 10’s national weekend and Natalie Bassingthwaighte Australian TV history. Sarah has also authored the best- She is an inspiration to her peers in sport and to others in morning news services for 14 years. Ambassador selling series of ebooks from IQuitSugar.com. Her 8-Week their business, school and personal lives. Kerri’s vision is Program has seen more than 400,000 people quit sugar. Tracey has written, produced and presented documentaries to continue to inspire and motivate through her warm and Natalie is an Australian pop and dance Sarah was a Big Sister in 2006. for NGOs in Bangladesh, Kenya, Papua New Guinea, personal Keynote Presentations, Workshops and her fun, recording artist, actress and television and India, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation team-building Corporate Days on the beach. personality. Bassingthwaighte was Kathryn Eisman in Australia. born and raised in Wollongong, New Ambassador Her book – ‘The Business of Being an Athlete, How to South Wales, Australia. She rose to fame in 1998 when she Currently, Tracey works as an anchor for Sky News, Build a Winning Career in Sport’. To date, she has sold began her television acting career on TV series, All Saints. From U.S. Presidents to Hollywood weekly columnist for Fairfax Media and The Hoopla, radio almost 5000 copies around the world. She is now delivering She has since enjoyed a successful acting career, gaining Royalty to Pop Culture Icons such as broadcaster, and presentation trainer at the Australian Film, workshops, based on the book, to athletes around commercial success for her role as Izzy Hoyland on popular George Clooney, and Cameron Diaz— Television and Radio School. the country. Australian soap opera, Neighbours. Bassingthwaige Kathryn has interviewed the biggest Tracey is passionate about women’s rights, social justice, Her media career has included TV sports commentating in also took part in a number of other Australian television names of our time. She has appeared on nearly every and equal opportunity. Beijing 2008 and London 2012 for channels 7 and 9 as well programmes, which include: Stupid, Stupid Man, major network including: NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s Good Morning America, ABC News, FOX News’ O’Reilly Factor, as regular appearances on shows like Sunrise, Wide World Underbelly and the Australian film Prey. Melinda Hutchings MSNBC, Extra, VH1 and MTV in the US and The TODAY of Sports, Mornings, etc and numerous radio programs. Bassingthwaighte is currently signed to Sony Music Ambassador Show, Morning Show, 9am with David and Kim and A Australia. From 2004—08 she was the lead singer of Current Affair within Australia. Melinda Hutchings is a marketing the band Rogue Traders. Within her time in the industry, expert and a writer, speaker and mentor Bassingthwaighe has received a number of award As the author of two internationally bestselling books, who is dedicated to helping young nominations including: APRA Awards, Logie Award as well ‘How To Tell a Man by His Shoes’ and ‘How To Tell a people overcome adversity. Having as Nickelodeon Australian Kids’ Choice Awards. Woman by Her Handbag’. Published in 15 countries and overcome her own challenging teen issues, Melinda is ten languages, Kathryn has toured the world sharing her In 2008, Bassingthwaighte began a career in reality passionate about empowering young people to trust the insights about modern love and life with thousands of television, when she joined So You Think You Can Dance voice that speaks from their heart to create a happy and women. She has written for some of the nation’s most Australia as the host of the show, until 2010 when the show fulfilling future. highly regarded publications. was axed from television. In mid—2011, she joined The X Factor as a judge and mentor. Page 26 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 2727 How you My Big Sister taught me that nobody can fix their problems alone and asking can help for help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you stronger. Patricia - Little Sister
$10.00 a month Will pay for a nutritious meal for a marginalised Donate Volunteer teenage girl at our monthly outing.
Monthly pledge and one-off donations Become a Big Sister $30.00 a month • Become a corporate partner • Become a Pro-Bono partner • Donate experiences for the Little Sisters • Volunteer your time and skills Will enable the recruitment and training of a Big Sister mentor for the year-long • Donate gifts for the Little Sisters • Become a program Ambassador SISTER2sister program. • Donate prizes for fundraisers • • Workplace Giving • Bequests $50.00 a month • Will enable a marginalised teenage girl to attend the 4 day Butterfly Bootcamp which marks the beginning of the year-long SISTER2sister program. “Volunteering at LCEF has fundraising Brand opened my eyes to what can $100.00 a month be achieved when dedicated Host a Fundraising Event Awareness and passionate women set their Will enable a marginalised teenage girl to attend the monthly outings and workshops, and fund • Raise funds through sporting events minds and hearts, to a cause Help us spread the word activities for the year-long mentoring program. • Fund raise through Everyday Hero for they believe in. • City2Surf or Cole Classic • Forward our Newsletters and EDMs to your friends Who knew that addressing Get your workplace involved • Follow us through Social Media serious social issues could be • Attend one of our fundraising events • so inspiring and so much fun! • Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to such an awesome Foundation.” Sharyn - Volunteer Page 28 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 2929 FOUNDATION FINANCIAL Partner SUPPORTERS
PROGRAM SUPPORTERS “Our brand is synonymous with care, so we support SISTER2sister because of the outstanding level of care that is taken to ensure every girl in the program has a chance to be her best.”
- Clynton (Managing Director of Beiersdorf) Page 30 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 3131 Pro Bono Partners
“It’s a huge honour to be a part in the amazing work the team at LCEF do to support, educate and inspire our youth. I’ve been involved for 9 years and every year I get to witness incredible transformations in self belief, self respect, happiness and confidence. I get to see long lost smiles reappear, I see lonely girls making life-long friendships, I hear incredible stories of bravery and faith and most of all I get to see our Little Sisters trusting themselves and others and believing that their lives are beautifully important. I love the time I share with the Big and Little Sisters, it’s an unexplainable privilege to be associated with such a empowering and loving group.” Andrew - MGA Training Page 32 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 3333 Where our OUR VOLUNTEERS money comes from The reason we can change lives…
FUNDRAISING EVENTS 320K $317,747 8% 310K 300K
290K
280K
270K
260K 26 43 % 250K % 240K GRANTS PARTNERSHIPS 230K
220K
210K
200K
190K
180K
170K
160K $151,200 22 % 150K 140K INDIVIDUAL 1 130K DONATIONS %OTHER 120K Where it goes... 110K $108,600 100K
90K
80K 90.5% 70K 60K Direct program costs We hope you all know the wonderful 50K 40K $32,281 difference you have made in the girls $32,432 lives. You may not see it, you may not 30K 20K $8,886 believe it, but we can absolutely assure 10K $4,536 you that its real and It will continue to impact the girls in a positive way Big Sister Mentors Ambassadors Psychologists & Marketing Admin Legal long after the end of the program. & Team Leaders & Volunteers Welfare Manager & Media & Copywriting & Accounting Board Members Leanne - Team Leader 9 . 5 administration% Page 34 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 3535 Statement of Statement of profit or loss and other financial position comprehensive income As at 30 June 2015 For the year ended 30 June 2015
2015 2014 2015 2014 $ $ $ $
Assets 432,888 334,631 Revenue Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 233,890 163,025 Expenses Trade and other receivables 2,023 6,376 Administrative expense (33,337) (27,887) Inventories 12,451 13,581 Accounting expense - (734) Other 21,615 7,041 Employee benefits expense (144,193) (144,678) Total current assets 269,979 190,023 Advertising expense (6,298) (3,099) Non-current assets Depreciation and amortisation expense (1,684) (1,762) Property, plant and equipment 7,625 7,275 Event expense (20,611) (28,139) Total non-current assets 7,625 7,275 Program costs (98,067) (76,868) Rent and storage expense (26,895) (26,664) Total assets 277,604 197,298 Staff and contractor expense (28,222) (23,795) Liabilities Other expenses (2,076) (7,808) Current liabilities Finance costs (1,317) (762) Trade and other payables 11,289 2,665 Borrowings 548 - Surplus/(deficit) before income tax expense 70,188 (7,565) Total current liabilities 11,837 2,665 Income tax expense - - Non-current liabilities
Surplus/(deficit) after income tax expense for the year attributable to the members 70,188 (7,565) Provisions 12,025 11,079 of Life Changing Experiences Foundation Limited Total non-current liabilities 12,025 11,079 Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax - - Total liabilities 253,742 183,554
253,742 183,554 Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to the members of 70,188 (7,565) Net assets Life Changing Experiences Foundation Limited Equity Retained surpluses 253,742 183,554
Total equity 253,742 183,554 Page 36 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 3737 Statement 30 GIRLS of cash flows For the year ended 30 June 2015
2015 2014 $ $
Cash flows from operating activities Receipts from customers (inclusive of GST) 434,329 319,264 Payments to suppliers (inclusive of GST) (331,851) (294,027) supported by
102,478 25,237 3 FULL TIME STAFF 3 TEAM LEADERS Interest received 2,912 3,668 Interest and other finance costs paid (1,317) (762) 30 BIG SISTERS Net cash from operating activities 104,073 28,143
Cash flows from investing activities Payments for property, plant and equipment (2,237) (2,652)
Net cash used in investing activities (2,237) (2,652)
Cash flows from financing activities Repayment of credit card (30,971) (2,652)
Net cash used in financing activities (30,971) (2,652) 25 VOLUNTEERS/PRO BONO
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 70,865 (407) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year 163,025 163,432
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year 233,890 163,025
Page 38 ANNUAL REPORT 2015 3939 www.lifechangingexperiences.org [email protected] Suite 1A3, Level 1A, 410 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Tel: 02 9211 9129 Fax: 02 9211 8196
Show the world what beautiful, creative and caring young women you are. I know you will achieve all your hopes and dreams. Miranda - Big Sister
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