My Journey into Not for Profit

Have you ever had a gut feeling and knew it was time for a career change? For me, this moment happened when I was working full time in a local Law firm in Mackay. I knew it was time to stop holding onto expectations that I was going to follow my high school dream of becoming a lawyer, and instead start a life-long career that I was passionate about.  

Getting the call to say I had been successful for the role of a Business Traineeship with Mackay Hospital Foundation was an incredible feeling but also very daunting. I didn’t know what to expect, though the thought of being able to support my local hospital was an overwhelming feeling that I couldn’t contain or explain.

During my traineeship with the Foundation, I was lucky enough to be able to visit and experience each department at the Mackay Base Hospital and build incredible relationships with staff and donors. I developed a passion for fundraising after a short time with the Foundation and knew that the not-for-profit environment was for me.

During my time at the Mackay Hospital Foundation, I have been extremely lucky to be involved in multiple fundraising events such as Christmas in July, Bunnings BBQs and Cinema Under the Stars. By assisting in the planning and execution of these events, I gained a great insight to what it is like working in an age diverse workplace alongside our wonderful volunteers. The Mackay Hospital Foundation have 89 active volunteers which makes me feel like I have gained 89 new grandparents. I believe that our volunteers are Hospital Heroes because they dedicate their time unconditionally and are always up for a challenge.  

If you are tired of every day being the same and are looking for a new, rewarding journey, I encourage you to try the not-for-profit environment. It is an exciting and challenging journey that I believe everyone should experience! 

Brittney Phelan
Fundraising & Events Assistant
Mackay Hospital Foundation