At Adara, every day is about accelerating progress for women and girls. Every day is about tackling the complex and unique challenges that many women and girls in remote settings face. Every day we work to improve and transform the lives of women and girls living in disadvantaged communities.
In the lead up to International Women’s Day, we’re joining those coming together to declare: “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment!”.
We have been inspired by the growing number of women’s voices featured as part of the She Gives movement, who have boldly shared their giving journeys – including our own Founder and Chair, Audette Exel AO. We too want to amplify the voices of the incredible women who partner with us to make our work possible, and hear why they’re passionate about investing in women and girls.
Meet sisters-in-law Lorena and Rita Uechtritz from the L&R Uechtritz Foundation. Lorena and her husband, Richard set up the Foundation back in 2008. Rita manages the day-to-day workings of the Foundation as its Executive Administrator, including working closely with their partners, like Adara.
Jenny Austin is an important part of the Pickles Foundation, who have supported Adara since 2011. There are three generations of this family foundation involved in guiding their transformative impact, supporting people in need.
Susan Burns is an Adara Development Board Director on both our Australian and Ugandan boards. Susan also worked as Adara Group’s General Counsel in a pro bono capacity for a remarkable 10 years.
What drives you to give?
Lorena and Rita: The privilege of being able to give to the world we live in. The desire and necessity to support future generations and leave a lasting impact. The chance to be a part of a like-minded collective who empower strength, hope, and healing. An opportunity to contribute to community and national stability through education, leadership, and peace-building through the compassion, grace, and determination of those on the frontlines of our partnerships.
Jenny: My faith calls me to look beyond my own privileged position to the needs of those with less, and to compassionately consider, and help, those who are disadvantaged and suffering.
Susan: My life so far has been very fortunate. I have a lovely home, I’ve had the benefit of (mostly free) education, I have ready access to subsidised health care, and have worked hard and achieved success in an exciting well-paid career. These are rights we should all have, but we do not. I am in a position of privilege and feel that I have a fundamental obligation to help others who have not had the same advantages as me.
Why is giving to causes focused on women and girls, like Adara, important?
Lorena and Rita: Women, since the dawn of time, have been trapped in an unfair ‘gender-caste’ system. Social constructs have confined and disadvantaged women in almost every field. Despite their innate capabilities, women’s efforts to expand their horizons have been hindered by gender bias and a hostile environment where they struggle to be heard.
We stand in solidarity with the countless others who advocate for women’s advancement (human rights) safety, and security, ensuring they start at the same level with equal (and poverty-reducing) opportunities. By championing equality and empowering women with knowledge and confidence, we can build just, inclusive, and peaceful societies. In essence, when women and girls thrive, societies flourish.
Adara provides an exceptional purposeful infrastructure model that delivers sustainable impact, scalability, and transformative change. Their authentic leadership, governance, and vision are remarkable. Adara operates with ethical practices that prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as capacity building. We deeply respect that Adara has attracted a team of highly skilled and dedicated individuals who are well-equipped to deliver impactful results.
Jenny: It is such a beautiful privilege to support women and children, our kindred spirits, in their time of need. We are like an extended family caring for and supporting one another.
Susan: I have a longstanding relationship with Adara. I worked alongside Adara’s business as a co-adviser to a mutual client many moons ago, and developed an understanding of the Adara model. As a philanthropist, supporting an organisation which maximises the impact of donor moneys on the ground is a no brainer. Having the administration costs of Adara Development covered by the Adara business is genius, as it allows 100% of my donation to be applied to programme work.
I have also had the opportunity to support Adara’s work professionally, and this has allowed me to develop a good understanding of Adara’s programmes and I feel deeply connected to them. Inequality is abhorrent. Empowering women and girls through healthcare, education and other initiatives is key to ending the cycle of poverty and reducing premature deaths. Women and girls become the agents of change in their communities. Adara is a values-led organisation which punches well above its weight in terms of its impact. I want to see that continue to grow.
Is there a special role you think women play in philanthropy?
Lorena and Rita: Certainly. Women bring a lived point of reference that is unique, collaborative, and empathetic toward giving. They can be equal and powerful agents of change in an increasingly fragile world.
Jenny: Women are often more willing to emotionally connect to the need we see, and in turn be moved to
do something about eliminating that need. We also like to talk and share, and so are likely to spread the word about amazing work, like Adara’s, to others.
Susan: I think there is. My own experience and observation is that women tend to be more thoughtful givers. I feel that we take the time to identify the right paths for our philanthropy in terms of causes that matter to us and organisations that can best make a difference. And I think we are more inclined to partner for the long term. All my significant philanthropic relationships extend beyond 15 years. Finally, I feel that women are more inclined to participate in collaborative philanthropy, which can amplify the impact of their support.
What would you say to someone considering whether or where to give this International Women’s Day?
Lorena and Rita: Establish a relationship with an organisation that has a proven track record of strong governance. One that converts your donation in a way that delivers maximum impact and aligns with your values. It’s been said that we have a responsibility to hold the sector to a high standard. That’s true. Be discerning in your choices.
Jenny: I would encourage someone to give this IWD so that they can experience the joy of being involved with something bigger than themselves.
Susan: To borrow a popular slogan, just do it! Find your passion, find an organisation which resonates with you and give. Give something. Small steps can generate significant change. It will make you happy.
Please consider supporting Adara. I have seen first-hand the changes its programmes are making, and it is astonishing. I’m very proud to support its work.
