Supporting Burwood students

Raise Foundation
Resilient. Brave. Hero.

Jenny Smith has been a Raise Foundation mentor at Burwood Girls High School for three straight years.

She gently encourages students to overcome their barriers by generously sharing her own story of overcoming adversity, including anxiety and depression.

“I love inspiring and encouraging others,” says Jenny.

Raise Foundation volunteer mentors give up two hours a week for 22 weeks to help young people become resilient, capable and connected by ensuring that they feel heard, valued and supported.

Jenny grew up in a family with mental illness and was bullied as a child. After leaving school, she endured long periods of unemployment, but completed courses and participated in volunteer work and casual work to improve her chances.

Today Jenny is a respected member of the mental health sector and participates in several organisations that have a direct influence on mental health policy.

“Everyone in the wider community benefits from my work in the sector, but the young people I mentor within Raise Foundation programs benefit the most from my knowledge and life experience,” Jenny says.

“I do what I do because it gives me a sense of purpose and brings me so much satisfaction, especially seeing young people flourish.”

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. Raise Foundation will be able to offer a mentor program to at least five additional students at Burwood Girls.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here