 | Evie Smith, Executive DirectorEvie's most recent position was Executive Director of the State Zionist Council of NSW producing all aspects of large scale events such as Israel's Independence Day and developing marketing strategies for the organisation. She has a Bachelor of Arts from University of NSW and a Diploma in Health Counselling from the Medical Registrar of Australia. Her role involves directing SMILE's fundraising strategy and developing corporate and personal donor relationships. "I am honoured to be working with the dedicated SMILE team, making a difference to families' lives and supporting medical research in a much needed area.” |
 | Cheri Ochnio, Family Relief Program Advisor Cheri oversees SMILE’s Family Relief Program; our newest initiative to assist families of children with rare diseases in times of financial difficulty. Cheri is ideally placed to help families who are coping with sick children. In 2001, when Cheri’s younger daughter, Jade, was 5 months old, she was diagnosed with the rare, incurable condition, Congenital Muscular Dystrophy and Cheri’s life changed dramatically. Cheri had to leave fulltime work and began volunteering with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and later worked with adults with Down's Syndrome. “Through the relationships I have developed with Jade's Doctors, Therapists, Specialists, other hospital staff and of course all the wonderful parents I have met along the way, I feel I have a sound understanding of the processes and frustrations confronting parents and caregivers of children with rare illnesses. My involvement with SMILE will enable me to put this knowledge to good use and help others who are facing the same situations. I am committed to helping SMILE make a difference to the lives of children with rare illnesses.” |
 | Jane Dinte, Financial Office ManagerJane Dinte is the Financial Office Manager for the SMILE Foundation. She is also a qualified accountant and has been utilising her book keeping skills for over 10 years. Jane identifies with the work that the SMILE Foundation does, as 5 years ago she suffered from breast cancer and understands the affect that a long term illness can have on a family. ”Helping families in need is just one way i can give back to the community for the help I received during my own illness. In this regard, I am thrilled to be a part of the SMILE team." |
 | Vanessa Border, Office AssistantVanessa works part-time for SMILE whilst she is completing a double degree in Psychology and Law at Macquarie University. Her main duties are of an administrative nature and she is also very interested in the area of rare diseases and the welfare of children. In her spare time Vanessa volunteers with kids with special needs and looks forward to embarking on a career in this area. “I am honoured to be a part of the SMILE team as raising money for children with rare diseases is an important issue in today’s society. I love knowing that when I come home from work, I have made a small step in aiding the lives of those children who have been suffering for so long.” |