When Kindness Comes Full Circle: A Simple Donation, A Moment to Remember

Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness create the most meaningful moments

Ahead of turning 25 this June, Jade Merola set herself a personal goal to try 25 new things. Part of that challenge included something particularly special: completing five good deeds with no expectation of reward, recognition or acknowledgement. Quiet moments of generosity, done simply because they felt right.

One of those good deeds happened during Cara’s Adelaide United Football Club (AUFC) Activation Round on Good Friday, April 3, 2026. Jade chose to donate to Cara as part of our ‘Donate & Win’ signed jersey campaign, not giving a second thought to the possibility of winning. She placed her entry into the drawer and moved on, focused only on the act of giving back.

As it turns out, kindness has a way of finding its way back.

Jade’s name was drawn as the winner of the signed Adelaide United men’s team jersey, a moment that came as a complete shock. A lifelong AUFC supporter, Jade’s love for football runs deep. She grew up attending matches with her grandpa, who is also a passionate United fan, and over the years the club has remained a constant part of her life. In an extra special full‑circle moment, Jade even met her partner at an Adelaide United match.

We were absolutely thrilled to welcome Jade to Hindmarsh Stadium to officially hand over her prize. On the day, she was invited to walk out onto the pitch, an unforgettable experience for any lifelong supporter. The surprises didn’t end there. Jade also had the opportunity to meet the Adelaide United Women’s team and was presented with a second jersey.

Her reaction said it all. Jade’s joy, gratitude and excitement were completely infectious, filling the space with energy and emotion. It was a powerful reminder of what community, generosity and shared passions can create when they come together.

At Cara, moments like these reflect why we do what we do. Acts of kindness, big or small, help build stronger, more connected communities. Jade’s story is a beautiful example that giving without expectation often leads to the most meaningful outcomes.

Congratulations, Jade. And thank you for supporting Cara, your kindness will truly make a difference in the lives of those we support.

Image shows: 
Banner Image: (L-R) Nathan Kosmina CEO AUFC, Sarah Morgan AUFC Woman’s player, Jade Merola Jersey Winner,  Emily Hodgson AUFC Woman’s player, and Meredith Waterhouse General Manager Marketing Business Development Cara. 

Bottom Image: (L-R) Sarah Morgan AUFC Woman’s player, Jade Merola Jersey Winner,  and Emily Hodgson AUFC Woman’s player.