The Sydney Catholic Schools’ Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), has launched a new initiative called The Giving Circle.
Launched on International Women’s Day, the Giving Circle is an opportunity for inspiring and generous women and men to help young female students in need through the gift of a Catholic education.
Members will join the Giving Circle with a $1,000 tax deductible donation, and will meet each year to reflect on areas of community need and work together to provide a life-changing Catholic education for girls impacted by these challenges.
Foundational members have heard the call and have already made their contribution, and look forward to being joined by new members who share their vision. Ongoing networking, learning and socialising opportunities will be offered to Giving Circle members, who share a common passion for philanthropy and education.
CEF Supervisor, Kathleen Badolato, explains how planning for an International Women’s Day event inspired the launch of The Giving Circle.
“International Women’s Day shines a light on the empowerment of women and at the CEF, we believe one of the most powerful ways to do that is by providing an education to girls in need.
“Members of The Giving Circle, guided by their faith and values, will have the opportunity to give to female students and families who need it most and contribute to the CEF’s vision of making education accessible to all,” Ms Kathleen Badolato said.
“We have CEF bursary opportunities for students who are Indigenous, from foster backgrounds, have come to Australia as refugees, or are from families experiencing financial hardship.”
“Our goal is to have at least 1,000 members of the Giving Circle actively supporting female Catholic education within the next decade,” Ms Badolato said.
The full amount of every single donation will be pooled with other members’ donations, maximising the educational opportunities the Giving Circle can provide.
The CEF welcomes supporters to join The Giving Circle, and to become part of a connected community of leaders who are making a difference in the lives of girls in need.
Donations can be paid either annually or in installments, with further information available on the CEF’s website.
About the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF)
The CEF provides support to 8.5 percent of all students currently enrolled across Sydney Catholic Schools. In 2023 alone, 6,151 students were provided with the opportunity to receive the gift of a Catholic education within the Sydney Archdiocese.
The CEF offers bursaries to Foster, Indigenous, Refugee students as well as others whose parents are struggling financially. Funding for the bursary program comes from generous corporate partnerships, community grants, annual fundraising events, Staff Giving Program, and donations.
The CEF thanks those who support the program and welcomes all who share a passion to provide an education to those in need.
