UWS Business students raise $28,000 for Northcott charity

Event management students have raised over $28,000 for charity, thanks to an innovative work experience program by the School of Business at the University of Western Sydney.

Over 100 students studying Sport and Hospitality Event Management in 2014 were required to stage public fundraising events for Northcott, a not-for-profit organisation that provides support and services to people with disability and their families.

Students conceptualised, planned and managed 18 events across the greater Sydney region, including cocktail parties, bowling, trivia sessions, movie nights and a Gatsby-themed dinner. With ticket prices starting at $20, the events were required to comply with industry best practices. This gave students hands-on experience with every aspect of event management – from ticket sales to organising sponsorships, venues and insurance.

"It's a win-win for everyone involved," says Priscilla Leong, Partnerships Officer at Northcott.

"The students have displayed ingenuity and a level of commitment that we'd expect from professional fundraising partners. The funds raised will help us to continue providing services and programs to children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities."

Students also met with Northcott clients and representatives, establishing personal connections and a deeper understanding of the not-for-profit sector.

"It's a positive way to engage the students with people their own age who are living with disability," says Priscilla.

"Although event management is the focus of their studies, the program also gives students a bigger-picture perspective on the role of fundraising events in the wider community."

"I am so proud of my students' efforts," says Dr Catherine Link, Lecturer in Hospitality Management at the UWS School of Business.

"Not only have they raised a record donation for Northcott, but they have also succeeded in increasing awareness about Northcott's valuable contribution within the community."
 
UWS has raised more than $70,000 in funds for Northcott since 2009.

19 December 2014
Media Contact: Tanya Patterson