Fernwood WomenÕs Health Clubs is giving women across Australia the opportunity to make a wish and help destitute and disadvantaged Australian women in the process.

During October women can purchase wishing stars and write their wishes on them for the important women in their lives; all proceeds of the sale of the stars will go towards the Fernwood Foundation which was established in September 2005 by Diana Williams, founder and executive chair of the franchised fitness group.

The first major initiative that has been undertaken by the Fernwood Foundation is the Fernwood Venus Program, a 10-week lifestyle program that aims to increase confidence and self-reliance in women. Three per cent of Fernwood’s profits fund the FoundationÕs activities.

Combining structured workshops with regular exercise, the Fernwood Venus Program aims to assist women facing challenging life circumstances by helping them to improve their life. Some women may be newly arrived migrants or refugees.

Fernwood Foundation manager Nic Linford says the Wishes for Women campaign is an innovative and fantastic way to create a sense of community spirit within the health clubs.

“Our members have been so enthusiastic to make wishes for their mums, best friends and all the women in their lives who they care about. All the stars will be hanging in our 77 clubs nation-wide to show just how much women value the special ladies in their lives,” Linford said.

“This is an inspiring program which will raise valuable funds to support FernwoodÕs Venus Program which has already helped to turn around so many disadvantaged womenÕs lives,” she added.