THANK YOU Rachael Carter!
Dear Friends,
I am writing to share the news that Rachael Carter has resigned after more than four incredibly impactful years of service with You Belong.
Rachael has been a passionate advocate, servant, and friend to the refugee and migrant community for many years. From the early days of You Belong, Rachael has been a leader and catalyst for establishing the many programs that empower the former refugees and the CALD community of Toowoomba. Highlights from Rachael’s time at You Belong include the establishment of various English Classes and Tutoring programs throughout the community, launching GROW Resilience program for school students with a refugee background, the development of You Belong’s newly launched Learner Driver Mentor Program, and the coordination of different cultural and community events celebrating refugees such as You Belong’s Welcome Picnics and inaugural Art Exhibition, “Neighbour”.
Rachael says, “I couldn’t express enough just how grateful I am for the last five years working with You Belong. Before I met Tim and I was visiting refugees in their homes assisting where I could, I couldn’t help but dream of a charity that existed to support the refugees more in the social inclusion space. You Belong came along at the perfect time and I have learnt many valuable lessons both personally and professionally with the opportunities and experiences that You Belong has provided and will be forever grateful for my time serving in this capacity.
I am personally indebted to Rachael for her sacrifice, skills, and most of all, her friendship. There is just no way to express and honour her enough for her service and impact on You Belong. Simply put, You Belong would not be what it is today without Rachael.
As Rachael prepares for the next season of her career and journey, we look forward to the many ways we can continue to work together to profoundly impact the refugee community in Toowoomba and beyond.
The Board will commence a recruitment process for Rachael’s replacement and the role of Toowoomba Coordinator, taking the necessary time and discernment. In the interim, the Board will support the staff in continuing You Belong’s essential work of refugee empowerment.
As we witness war and mass displacement in Europe again and indeed around the world, there has never been a more urgent time for people to come together to build a world where everyone belongs. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership with You Belong. Together we strive to see refugee Waymakers thrive in our communities and around the world.
Until We All Belong,
Tim Buxton
CEO & Founder, on behalf of the Board of You Belong
