After working in the business and legal fields for 20 years, Jo felt somewhat unfulfilled each day heading into work. She decided to pursue a new route when she had the opportunity to apply for a role at Acorn. It was perfect for Jo, as she was looking to work in the community sector and be able to help people in need.

Jo has always led a family-enriched life. "My family were not overly financially wealthy, but we were so wealthy in other ways – a home of our own, education, great food on the dinner table, days at the beach, camping."

"I was lucky, and I know it, not everyone was born into a family like mine. So I care about those that didn't get as lucky as me."

Perpetuity: The state or quality of lasting forever.

One of the reasons why giving through the Acorn Foundation is different from other charities is that it is not just a one-off gift. It is an easy way to provide financial support long after you're gone.

As Acorn's Scholarships & Community Engagement Specialist, Jo works closely with local charities.

"Being able to provide consistent funding for charities each year is super helpful for them to plan for the future."

"I know how genuine, knowledgeable, and trustworthy our staff and committee members are, and will continue to be, because that's our ethos – we focus on integrity, so my giving will always be in good hands."

Jo has named Acorn in her will to receive a small part of her estate; she also gives through an Acorn Giving Circle and the Western Bay Women's Fund.

Jo says the donation in her will is something she has set up and can now forget about.

"I have the ability to change my wishes at any time with Acorn. The giving circle is a neat team of people with good hearts, and we will be meeting in the next month or two for cheese and wine to decide where our funds go this year."

"I like being a part of the Western Bay Women's Fund as they are a dynamic bunch of fun women, and it keeps me involved in what is happening around the place."

Giving is a regular occurrence in Jo's family. Instead of buying Christmas gifts for each other, they donate to charity. It provides them a moment to appreciate and be grateful for what they have and to think about those in their community who aren't as fortunate.

"It also makes us stop to look at the fantastic mahi of our community organisations – they are just amazing people."