Student raises funds for the Alannah and Madeline Foundation
Drouin Secondary College student Charlotte Smithett is raising funds for the Alannah and Madeline Foundation by shaving her head the night of her school formal.
Charlotte, a year 11 student, is passionate about the cause and hopes her fundraiser will raise awareness about the Alannah and Madeline Foundation (AMF) and what they do.
AMF aims to help children live free from violence and trauma, working in care prevention and advocacy. It supports children in a variety of areas, from those experiencing family violence to those experiencing online bullying.
Charlotte’s goal is to raise more than $750. Her original goal was $500, but she surpassed that within two weeks of launching the fundraiser.
“I made a bet with friends that if I raise over $500 I would shave my head for any charity,” she said.
Charlotte is interested in pursuing a degree in social work after school and working overseas.
“Maybe going overseas and teaching kids English in underdeveloped countries - but I’m honestly not too sure.”
Charlotte said she chose to do it before the formal to give what she is doing a “bit more impact”.
“I’m not sure how it’s going to look in my formal photos - but it’s empowering.”
She said her family and friends are “super supportive” of what she is doing.
“Lots of my friends and family have donated,” she said.
Charlotte is not new to fundraising, in 2021 she was awarded Young Citizen of the Year in the Baw Baw Shire for her work in the Drouin Scouts and community fundraisers.
To learn more about Charlotte’s fundraiser, or to donate visit https://fundraise.amf.org.au/ fundraisers/charlottesmithett