Cardinia Foundation executive officer Di Padgett has been hailed as a best new
DI PADGETT has enjoyed a successful year as the Cardinia Foundation’s executive officer and for her efforts she has been named “best new talent” for her outstanding contribution to a community foundation.
Ms Padgett was thrilled to receive the gong at the Philanthropy Australia Community Foundations conference on Thursday 13 August.
“It was very exciting because the people who are on the voting panel are people who have worked in philanthropy and community organisations who I respect very much,” she said.
Ms Padgett took up her role with the Cardinia Foundation in June last year. She listed opening the foundation’s office, launching its website, securing Rhonda Burchmore for two functions – one of which raised $80,000 – a lunch featuring Les Twentyman and Father Bob Maguire and the Thank-you Firies day as her biggest achievements to date.
Ms Padgett said these events had importantly raised the profile of the philanthropic organisation.
“We’re now reaching many more people who had never heard of the foundation and philanthropy,” she said.
“They understand that you don’t have to be mega wealthy to be a philanthropist … we give what we can.”
Ms Padgett is now looking forward to the foundation’s annual dinner on 16 October. It will feature former Sale of the Century co-host Alyce Platt.
