The Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund is holding a fundraising lunch on May 24 — open to all — that will feature Dr Olive Webb as guest speaker.
Dr Webb is a clinical psychologist who has worked in the field of intellectual disabilities and autism for more than 50 years.
Working at Sunnyside Hospital in the 1970s, Dr Webb was horrified at the conditions she witnessed in the so-called "back wards", where those with intellectual disabilities were hidden away.
Since that time, and for more than 50 years, Dr Webb continued to advocate for change for these people. She was the longest-serving member of the former Canterbury District Health Board, gave evidence at the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care in 2022, and she has recently published a book, From Behind Closed Doors.
At 77, she continues to work, supporting those with intellectual disabilities and autism. She was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit and was a nominee for this year’s New Zealander of the Year.
Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund committee member Jan Hide said the fund was re-launched last year after Covid-19 put a halt to its initial activities.
Ms Hide said the aim of the fund was to support women’s initiatives within the South Canterbury community.
"It is recognised that by supporting such initiatives, the whole community benefits.
"Whilst we have been able to support several organisations with pass-through funding, our present goal is to raise a base of $50,000 for the fund. Once we raise that amount, it will stay invested through the Aoraki Foundation and we will use the interest to make grants to women’s projects."
Ms Hide said the fund held four events each year, all with a different focus. Recently, it ran the International Women’s Day event, and after this month’s luncheon, the next event will be in September, where it is hoped to raise enough money to provide pass-through funding for several more women’s projects.
The luncheon will be held at noon on Friday, May 24, at West End Hall, Maltby Ave, Timaru. Tickets are $40 (+ GST) and available online through the Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund Facebook page, or from The Shoe Shop in Sophia St (cash only).
