Ground-breaking study of philanthrophy in the Illawarra

Aug 20, 2004

The Centre for Social Marketing Research at the University of Wollongong is undertaking the first study of its kind in the Illawarra to examine the philanthropic attitudes of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the region.

Dr Gary Noble said the study aimed to explore the "helping" or "giving" attitudes and behaviour of SMEs in the Illawarra.

He said the study's findings might help SMEs in their future decision-making processes about which charities and non-profit organisations they might, or might not, decide to assist.

One organisation which has already expressed interest in the study is the non-profit community service organisation of "Lifeline South Coast" which is now acting as a partner in the study.

"Over and above the whole academic study itself, we will be able to help Lifeline South Coast see how they might best secure a more stable funding stream through the SME sector," Dr Noble said.

The principal researcher for the project is Ms Monique Harper-Richardson who is UOW's Manager of Community and Partnerships and is currently undertaking this project towards her Master's degree in Commerce.

Inititial findings of the study are expected to be available within six months.

Dr Noble said the Centre was also investigating in a separate study the attitudes of large corporate Australia in regard to philanthropy. He said the centre's partner in this study was the Royal Blind Society of NSW.