Margaret Ladner’s 30 years of volunteer service to the Dandenong and District Benevolant Society saw her recognised as the winner of the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club’s community superhero initiative at a gala function at the club’s recent Melbourne Cup night.
Margaret, 81, joined the society in 1984 and took over the reins about 15 years ago.
“I’m fortunate enough to be able to do the things that I do,” she said.
Over 30 years work with the society, Margaret has helped many families in the community – including many migrant and refugee families – find their feet.
“I have taken home many and given them a bed.
“Three or four years ago, an Iranian couple, they came in with two lovely kids.”
She helped them to find a home and offered the man a job driving a truck for the society.
After about two years in the role he told Ms Ladner he wanted to drive for Uber but his car was too old.
“So, unbeknownst to my husband, I gave him a loan of Geoff’s good car to get him started,” she laughed.
“Within three months he was able to buy himself a brand new car and he’s in business.”
Deputy Premier James Merlino presented Margaret with a $2500 Whitsunday holiday, as well as a $2500 cheque donated to the Dandenong and District Benevolent Society.
Superhero takes her place – It’s official – Margaret Ladner is a superhero (The Dandenong Journal)
Helping Hand is Handed on – Dandenong District Benevolent Society is changing hands, but not its commitment to the community (The Dandenong Journal)
The Community Superhero program recognised 23 volunteers for their outstanding work with various community organisations throughout the City of Greater Dandenong. Each was presented with a certificate from Martin Pakula (Member for Keysborough) and Roz Blades (Councillor, City of Greater Dandenong), as well as a gift pack from the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club.
The Community Superhero Award is an extension of the club’s Greyhound Community Fund. A joint initiative from the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club and Greyhounds Entertainment, the Greyhound Community Fund makes $100,000 available each financial year for not-for-profit organisations whose programs benefit the City of Greater Dandenong Community.
Organisations that have received funding include Wallarano Primary School, Sandown Cobras Football Netball Club, Yoorala, South East Community Links, Springvale Benevolent Society, Rotary Club of Noble Park, and Burmese Women’s Alliance.
Click here to learn more about the Greyhound Community Fund.
