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United Way Blog

United Way Australia Hosts School Ball to Advance Literacy Skills of Children in Australia

United Way Australia would like to thank all who attended, sponsored, donated auction items and otherwise supported United Way Australia’s inaugural School Ball at Sydney’s Town Hall on Saturday 19th of September. The black-tie event raised approximately $400,000 AUD to advance the literacy skills of children in some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities.

Philanthropic members of Sydney’s business community and local celebrities attended the sold-out occasion, with Russel Howcroft, Executive General Manager Network Ten and Gruen Panelist, acting as MC, Sydney’s majestic Town Hall was transformed into a school formal in line with the educational theme.

“I was shocked when informed by United Way of the level of illiteracy in young Australians. United Way has practical programs in place to improve the situation, and at Network Ten we will do all we can to assist them,” said Howcroft. Network Ten announced on the night a generous $150,000 advertising offer which will help United Way expand its networks and reach new supporters and families.

The money raised will help improve the literacy skills of disadvantaged Australian children and ensure they start school ready to learn, read and succeed. These children may not know how to hold a book and have limited numeracy and life skills, making them more at risk of long-term disadvantage. Unfortunately, this can lead to difficulty keeping up at school and down the track, an increased chance that they will leave school early.

Our annual charity event was an opportunity for us at United Way to engage with the community that supports our literacy program, allowing them to understand the impact their philanthropy will have on the future leaders of our communities

Kevin Robbie, CEO of United Way Australia.

Congratulations to United Way Australia on hosting such a successful event, which has helped to not only shine some light on the issues facing some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities, but also, raised funds to help make a positive difference in the future!