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Helen’s legacy will ensure her values live on

Publication date: 23 September 2026

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Helen’s lifelong ties to the Jesuits inspired a lifetime of generosity and a gift in her Will that will carry it forward.

“My Christian values taught me to care for others, and I know that by supporting Jesuit Social Services, I’m living out that commitment,” says Helen.

After decades of supporting Jesuit Social Services, Helen has chosen to leave a gift in her Will, ensuring the values that have guided her throughout her life can continue to make a difference long into the future.

A supporter of Jesuit Social Services since 1997, Helen’s connection to the Jesuits began in childhood and grew into a deep appreciation for their commitment to supporting the most vulnerable.

Today, Helen is a valued Community Partner at Jesuit Social Services, giving monthly since 2006.

Helen’s family had a connection with the Jesuits from when her brother went to St Pat’s East Melbourne, a school which had been run by Irish Jesuits since 1865.  She herself found a further connection with Jesuit causes when she was young, helping her mother run the St Patrick’s Mothers’ Auxiliary stand at the annual Xavier College Fair.

Helen’s involvement sparked a lifelong commitment to volunteering, and she continued to support the Fair as secretary of the organising committee for many years, inspired by the Jesuit commitment to bringing about a more inclusive and just world.

Helen says her deep admiration for Jesuit Social Services is rooted in a shared belief that people can overcome adversity when they are given the opportunity, support, and encouragement to do so.

“I love reading about young people who’ve overcome adversity – these stories motivate me to keep giving. The staff and volunteers at Jesuit Social Services are remarkable, and what you achieve is extraordinary.”

Helen

Jesuit Social Services supporter

For Helen, giving is a way of putting her values into action.

“Once I paid off my mortgage, I had a little more to spare, and I knew I wanted to give to an organisation I trusted to use the money wisely.”

That trust, built over decades supporting Jesuit Social Services, has led Helen to make a lasting commitment to the organisation with a gift in her Will.

She believes you don’t have to leave a large gift to make a difference.

“Even if you are just leaving a little bit – every little bit counts, and it is a way that your values can live on after you are gone.”

By including Jesuit Social Services in her Will, Helen is ensuring her legacy of care and compassion will live on.

“If anyone asked me who to give to, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Jesuit Social Services. Your work is enabling people to live good, healthy lives in society.”

If Helen’s story inspires you to embrace the power of giving and join her in including a gift in your Will, please know that every contribution – no matter how big or small – is a meaningful way to care for others and leave a lasting legacy of compassion.

If you’d like to talk to someone about joining Helen in leaving a legacy that can bring love to hard places, Emily would be happy to hear from you on 0477 605 933 (Mon-Thurs).

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