MELBOURNE has helped raise over $162,000 for The Reach Foundation with a hugely successful ‘Round for Reach’.
Last weekend’s dedicated match, which centred around club legend and Reach co-founder Jim Stynes, generated close to 3,000 donations, totalling the most funds ever raised through the partnership.
Of the final tally, the Demons’ Co-Principal Partner Zurich Australia donated $25,000, while Major Partner Beyond Bank added $10,000.
An incredible start to the ‘Be Like Jim’ fundraising campaign. ??@ZurichAustralia have kicked off the Round for Reach, with a generous donation to @wearereach ??
— Melbourne Demons (@melbournefc) August 11, 2021
??: https://t.co/takN8wkA8Q
The Be Like Jim campaign saw the likes of Max Gawn and Garry Lyon come together to recognise the round, Stynes’ legacy and the selfless work he did in the youth space, all while encouraging people to donate $11 – a nod to Stynes’ jumper number.
It also highlighted the 264-gamer’s lasting impact on both the Melbourne and wider football community.
With the match taking place during an incredibly challenging time for many – the not-for-profit organisation included – Reach CEO Philippe Magid expressed his immense gratitude.
“We thank everyone who came together to honour Jim’s legacy and invest in our nation’s youth, who are struggling more than ever right now,” he told Melbourne Media.
“Your generosity allows us to continue our vital work in supporting young people to believe in themselves and get the most out of life.
“Our thanks extend to the team at Melbourne, their partners Zurich and Beyond Bank, and our campaign partner Hotglue, who did a mountain of work pro-bono to bring the campaign to life.”
Melbourne CEO Gary Pert echoed the sentiment.
“The Reach Foundation is one that all of us at the club hold close to our hearts,” he said.
“To be able to raise such a significant amount of money, and help not only our young people but Reach, as an organisation, in these challenging times is something we’re incredibly proud of.
“I would like to thank all of our members and supporters for getting behind the Round for Reach and Jim’s amazing legacy.”
All funds raised through the Be Like Jim campaign will go towards the training and development of Reach workshop facilitators, who will then be able to assist and inspire young Australians, just like Stynes did.
Fans can still support the initiative, with all donations over $2 tax-deductible.
