Dennis Lou, a UWA Bachelor of Science student majoring in Cybersecurity with a minor in Data Science, was recently nominated for a McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award for his support of WA Mums Cottage.
Taking on the IT and Data Systems Intern role, Dennis helped the Mandurah-based not-for-profit put automations in place to cut down on administration time, and to increase engagement with volunteers and donors.
“WA Mums Cottage helps women and children affected by domestic violence. I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in such vulnerable situations as well as the critical role that non-for-profit organisations play in providing support,” Dennis said.
“I believe my projects were beneficial; by streamlining the recruitment process for volunteers, we were able to attract more individuals who are willing to offer their time and expertise, increasing the organisation’s capacity to assist those in need.
“Additionally, the creation of a dedicated donation web page can improve engagement with a wider audience, as well as existing donors, to ensure continuity of support and services that WA Mum’s Cottage provides,” he said.
Vanessa Malady is Executive Officer of WA Mums Cottage and said that Dennis brought a true volunteer spirit during his time with the team.
“Dennis was professional and always kept me updated on his projects, which he worked diligently to complete. Above all else, he formed an instant rapport with the team of volunteers he interacted with,” Ms Malady said.
“The volunteer webpage Dennis created is now live and we have received several applications. This page will be used in our online campaigns moving forward.”
Dennis said that the team at WA Mums Cottage had helped him overcome his initial worry about the positive contribution he could make as a man working with an organisation focused on domestic violence.
“I’m thankful for my supervisor and the volunteers I worked with, they were welcoming, friendly and supportive,” he said.
“Overall, the internship was an eye opener. It allowed me to learn first hand about the number of people affected by domestic violence, and other compounding issues, while the seminars and events that are part of the internship unit equipped me with the basics for exercising active citizenship.”