Bringing Joy to Childhood Cancer: Amanda Mandie’s Mission with Koala Kids

Amanda Mandie, founder of Koala Kids Foundation, talks about how the organisation brings happiness to children undergoing cancer treatment and supports their families.What started with small acts like providing art supplies and lollipops has grown into a network of volunteers and businesses. Mandy shares her personal journey, including being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2006, and how she found purpose in volunteering.She discusses challenges like declining volunteer numbers and funding, as well as Koala Kids’ approach to sustainability, such as intergenerational volunteering and flexible ways to contribute.Despite the decline in grants for children’s cancer, Koala Kids continues to fundraise through events and corporate partnerships. Mandy’s advice for getting involved in community work: do something you love, find a good team, and make it work with your lifestyle. Koala Kids Foundation https://koalakids.org.au/