If I was to choose three words to describe Joanna Giles they would be vibrant, dynamic and committed. Joanna is consistently asking “So what’s next? What would it take for this to happen?” As if all that she has accomplished already isn’t a testimony to this woman’s drive and passion to make a difference.

Joanna became involved with World Youth International while living in America and was part of an inspired team that in 1999 built a school in Gokarna, Nepal. Then in 2000 she established HOG Heaven charity which was inspired by the spirit of her Grandfather and bares his initials – Hew O’Halloran Giles. In 2001 HOG Heaven Charity built an orphanage called the Sapana Dreaming Children’s Home next to the school in Gokarna and Joanna was made the official patron.

On returning to Australia and researching her family history Jo discovered that she comes from a long line of philanthropists. In fact Hew’s family home was gifted to the state of South Australia and was turned into an orphanage. The Barr Smith family were predominate and important pioneers of South Australia and were renowned for their generosity and interest in the social and cultural development of the colony.

So it seems that Joanna was destined to carry on the incredible gift of giving. HOG Heaven charity has members in South Australia and Queensland and fundraising efforts have meant that those in need have received school supplies, toys, surgical procedures, cleft lip/palate operations, buildings and much needed funds. These gifts have given hope to hundreds of families and children including the victims of the Sri-lanka tsunami.

Joanna’s current goals are to supply incubators and solar panels to remote hospitals and schools and to buy a property to provide a safe home for women and children sold into the sex industry. Joanna is very hands on and travels extensively to ensure that 100% of the money raised goes to the intended recipients. Her own travel is self-funded.

Joanna fundraisers through dinners, lunches, fashion show and selling merchandise. “Queens Club Quarterly” is a group of women who meet once a quarter to have lunch, chat, connect and to raise money and awareness for those Joanna is assisting. It is a perfect example of Joanna’s sense of fun and purpose. This month a banquet is being held at Peregian Golf Course (see events calendar or contact Jo for details).

And even though Jo can’t help herself and will always answer that call to help. And even though she is a phenomenal woman who fills Santa’s shoes brilliantly. She can’t do it alone and a few elves to help would be greatly appreciated. Joanna is the first to admit she is technology challenged and would looovvvee a personal assistant. So if you feel the urge to want to be involved in such a worthwhile organisation, please contact Joanna.

As Joanna says “ There is nothing greater than seeing the effect on someone’s life you helped change.” So at this time of giving and reflecting, I can only say thank goodness that people like Joanna are in the world!