Jennifer Curtis
Quota International of Forster Tuncurry, NSW

A member of Quota International of Forster Tuncurry for six years, Jennifer Curtis has been dedicated and hard-working member from the beginning, accepting office as club president just three years after joining. She always contributes in a positive way, providing many great ideas and looking for new ways in which Quota can work in the community. Jennifer embodies the true spirit of volunteerism and was elected unanimously for this award.

After watching a heartbreaking television program about the effect a four-year drought has had on rural communities in Australia, Past President Jennifer stood up during the Open Meeting at District 28's 2005 Conference and expressed her concern for the women and children of the bush. She challenged all Quotarians present: "What are WE doing to help these women on the land?" Jennifer explained how she had heard that farmers' wives were struggling to feed their families and could not afford basic items such as toothpaste, shampoo, and sanitary goods, let alone such "luxury" items as hand cream, lipstick, etc.

Jennifer's passionate appeal could not be ignored—three other district clubs took up the challenge, and our club decided that she should be the person to oversee this exciting program. Her careful planning and the support of all members of the Forster Tuncurry club ensured that it was an outstanding success!

Jennifer personally approached businesses for items and spent hours and hours making up comfort packages for those in need, ensuring that each parcel contained moisturizers to combat the harshness of the country areas, other toiletries, plus a little special item for each lady. The Curtis family turned their garage into a warehouse for the sorting of the goods, which had been donated by businesses and other organizations and supporters in our community. Many Quota working bees assisted with the packing.

This was a real "hands on" project, which attracted much enthusiastic support. Jennifer's enthusiasm and leadership have done much to promote Quota within our community.

Jennifer is an outstanding member of our club, and we recognize her dedication and concern for others in nominating her as Quota International of Forster Tuncurry Volunteer of the Year.

To return to the 2006 Volunteers of the Year main page, click here.