Philanthropy

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.This is to have succeeded.
–     Ralph Waldo Emerson

Most of us said something about helping people in our interview. As you will quickly discover however, saying and doing are worlds apart. A wise old little green critter once said, “do or do not. There is no try”. Lucky for you, the AMSS is  here to make the task of translating your words into actions much easier for you. In other words, we’re here to help you to “help a brother out”.

Philanthropy is one of the core pillars of the AMSS and a sense of service to others is integral to all that we do, so much so that a Philanthropy officer is elected to assist the committee in coordinating a series of AMSS initiatives with a focus on fundraising, awareness and involvement. Here’s what to keep an eye out for in 2011:

“Shoeboxes of love” for Queensland

Obviously an impromptu initiative for the AMSS this year, we are proud to support Rotary Campbelltown’s efforts to donate and collect shoeboxes of practical items to be sent to flood-affected areas of Queensland. We are equally delighted to have inspired and assisted the National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA) to contribute to our existing effort during their 2011 Congress held here in Adelaide.

“Close the Gap” campaign for Indigenous health equality

This year the AMSS’s contribution to the “Close the Gap” campaign will include:

• A barbeque at the medical school on National “Close the Gap” day (Wednesday the 23^rd of March)
• A charity gig with some fantastic live music at the Cavern to raise much-needed funds (Friday the 25^th of March)
• An Education Forum focusing on Indigenous health (Wednesday the 30^th of March)

For more information on “Close the Gap” see http://www.closethegap.com.au/

The AMSS “City to Bay” team

Adelaide’s favourite charity run attracts a large contingent of AMSS members. This traditionally incorporates a “bed push”, whereby the quicker runners among us traverse the entire 12km whilst simultaneously pushing a hospital guerney. Last year we engaged in some friendly competition against Flinders University Medical Students’ Society (FUMSS). Beating a team of geriatrics is harder than it looks, so even if you are not a keen runner we’d love for you to come along and support your AMSS. There is also always the option of doing the “City to Bay” walk too! The charity we will be supporting in 2011 is still being determined.

The AMSS Movember team

Mo’ mos, mo’ money! Sacrifice social acceptance and save your shavers a month’s worth of work in the name of men’s health by joining your AMSS Movember team. AdeLadies need not feel excluded: we encourage you all to be involved as Mo Sisters and assist with the promotion of our team and their admirable quest for the furriest face.

...but wait, there's more...

We’re currently working on plenty of other newbies to squeeze in to 2011 as well, so keep an eye out for more about these on Facebook and your discussion boards. Lastly, and most importantly, if you have any ideas for fundraising, want to suggest a charity you’d like to see the AMSS support or would like to get involved in any way please do not hesitate to send an email to philanthropy@amss.org.au. We would love to hear from you!