Australia
“After nearly two decades of witnessing UNHCR’s transformative work, I believe it is crucial to ensure that this support continues for years to come.”
Australia for UNHCR Board Member Rick Millen has been a dedicated supporter of humanitarian causes for many years. A qualified chartered accountant and former partner at PwC, Rick played a key role in driving a donation of $6 million to UNHCR - one of the largest corporate gifts in the organisation’s history. This significant contribution was used to build schools and refugee camps in Chad, providing vital support to displaced families in need.
In his own words, Rick shares why he chose to leave a gift to Australia for UNHCR in his Will:
As a Director on Australia for UNHCR’s Board, my primary responsibility is to ensure that every dollar donated by our generous supporters goes as far as possible. After nearly two decades of witnessing UNHCR’s transformative work, I believe it is crucial to ensure that this support continues for years to come.
Nearly 20 years ago, I was leading a large corporate foundation that worked with UNHCR on a project in Chad. Together, we provided aid to refugees who had fled the devastating civil war in Sudan. This experience opened my eyes to the life-changing impact of humanitarian support.
I will never forget the people I met and the stories I heard in Chad. Through no fault of their own, Sudanese families had been forced to flee their homes because of the brutal conflict. They found shelter in desert camps but still faced many challenges, including how to give their children a chance for a better life through education.
Twenty years ago, UNHCR was there to help refugees find safety and ensure that vulnerable children could continue their schooling. Today, its work remains a lifeline for those in need. Whenever disaster strikes, dedicated teams are on the ground within 72 hours, delivering emergency relief. And even when a crisis fades from the headlines, UNHCR remains committed to providing long-term support to help refugees rebuild their lives.
I have seen first-hand how donations can make a real difference. In emergencies, your support helps distribute essential items like tents, blankets, and kitchen sets to families who’ve lost everything. But it doesn’t end there. Your gift also provides refugees with access to education and livelihood opportunities, empowering them to develop new skills, maintain hope and preserve their dignity.
After witnessing the incredible work that UNHCR does, I decided to leave a gift in my Will. This deeply personal choice gives me confidence that refugees will continue to receive vital assistance - now and for decades to come.
Sudanese refugees Fatima and Yaroun know all too well how unpredictable the future can be. They fled the war in Sudan, found safety in Chad, but were displaced again when floods destroyed their home.
Though the future remains uncertain, I am certain that leaving a gift in my Will can have a lasting impact on refugees like Fatima and Yaroun even after I’m gone. While donations during my lifetime are crucial, I believe that leaving a legacy is equally important in providing those forced to flee with life-saving aid.
By leaving a legacy to UNHCR, you can ensure that future generations of displaced families receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. Your gift can provide safety, education and hope to those who need it most.
How do you want to be remembered? One of the most inspiring ways to ensure your values live on is to leave a gift in your Will, like Rick.