5Q4 > An ADRA Appeal Collector

Putting the “fun” into “fundraising” doesn’t need to be hard. For 17-year-old Jane Cooper, it’s simply a matter of being with friends and understanding that her efforts really do make a difference.

1 Why did you get involved with the ADRA Appeal? > I first got involved when I started high school at Brisbane Adventist College. I wanted to do it so I could help people by raising money and doing something that made a difference in the world. I also wanted to help put smiles on people’s faces, by giving them something they need.

2 What’s the best part of going on the door-knock appeal? > Hmm … the best thing would have to be getting out into the community with people. I also like the fact that I’m raising money to help someone. When you see people out raising money for ADRA—really caring about it and smiling—you see God’s goodness! It’s beautiful!

3 The ADRA Appeal happens every year. What keeps you coming back? > Well, I think that if I only did it once and then considered that to be good enough, I wouldn’t feel like I completed what God would love me to do. Also, it’s so much fun to get out there with friends! It’s a natural high that just makes you happy every time you get out there and raise money.

4 Young people can really make a difference to ADRA’s work. Why should more get involved? > I think that if people saw young kids participating in fundraising and having a good time, it would inspire them to participate. It shows that anyone can do it without feeling uncool or left out. It’s for all ages, for all nationalities.

5 How do you think community service fits in with the mission of the Adventist Church? > Our mission as a church isn’t just to preach, but to show the wholeness of God’s love. Our mission isn’t just to preach how to love, but to show love.