In the era of COVID-19, cause-related fundraising events have become such a formidable and effective fundraising force, especially in the mental health sector. Not only do cause-related events generate important funds but they exist to promote the cause of an organisation, create emotional connection and community, and give a voice to those with lived experiences who might have been previously unheard.
Today, 1 in 4 young people in Australia are currently experiencing a mental health difficulty and sadly 70% of those who need help don’t get it. This is why, this month, ReachOut and @Ian Thorpe AM have been challenging people across Australia to swim for youth mental health and suicide prevention with Laps for Life. Whether new to the water or a competitive swimmer, people across Australia have been swimming laps at their local pool, hitting the beach or taking part in ocean swims to support all young people in Australia to be happy and well.
Now in its fourth year, Laps for Life is a chance for those with lived experience to “give” in memory of a loved one in a meaningful way or support someone who is navigating mental ill health, all while doing something for their own health and wellbeing – swimming laps.
Check out what ReachOut’s Director of Marketing and Fundraising Tracey Campbell has to say about the power of cause-related events in transforming mental health through lived experience advocacy.
If this has brought up anything for you, find support here: ReachOut’s urgent help page.
