2019-Apr-17

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Making a Difference Down Under with Chuck’s Challenge

As we all now know, March Madness takes on a very different meaning at Cisco. Using the spirit of sport to foster connections with communities around the world, Chuck posed a challenge to bring a shared commitment to CSR among all Cisco employees.

Chuck’s Challenge offered employees a chance to vote for a cause they’re passionate about. Starting with 16 incredible organizations, the Challenge consisted of four rounds of voting — similar to the annual basketball competition, March Madness — and the winning nonprofit receives $25,000.

Cisco Makes a Difference

Of the organizations up for the prize, Melbourne’s own Make a Difference Foundation (MAD) was close to home for Cisco Australia and New Zealand. The ANZ team and peers across the world rallied behind them.

It’s easy see why. The MAD Foundation works to help the lives of disabled and disadvantaged children and young people by funding life-changing support equipment and services.

MAD was established 19 years ago by four lifelong friends after they became parents for the first time and is run entirely by an extensive volunteer network.

With a unique nonprofit model, all money raised goes directly to fund equipment for disabled children. That means every single cent of raised funds goes directly to beneficiaries to change the lives of children in need.

“The $25,000 will enable MAD to directly fund lifechanging equipment and services that disabled and disadvantaged beneficiaries would otherwise be unable to afford such as mobility wheelchairs, standing frames, and ceiling hoists,” said MAD Foundation President Damian Toohey.

"For over 10 years, the partnership with Cisco has been a key foundation pillar and driving support behind MAD's sustainability through the provision of board members, staff to help organize and attend fundraisers, donations, and engagement."

Thank You from the ANZ Team

In response to the results of Chuck’s Challenge, Damian Toohey said, “We are always looking for people to inspire, connect, and make a difference! Donations are a great way to support, but also more volunteers are welcomed.”

Ken Boal said of the win, “It’s pretty remarkable that an Aussie charity has taken out Chuck’s Challenge. We’d like to say thank you to our peers all around the world who helped cheer on the MAD Foundation and all the great work they do to change lives.”

There has been a buzz across the ANZ offices and Cisco Webex Team rooms since MAD Foundation progressed through the rounds. There’s nothing that brings our Cisco community together more than a sense of camaraderie for a cause, to be able to make a difference. #WeAreCisco

Employees eligible for Bright Funds can make additional donations and Cisco will match them.

Help us amplify this win and click here to retweet the news.

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