MELBOURNE’S partners have continued the fundraising efforts for this year’s Round for Reach, throwing their support behind the Be Like Jim campaign. 

The Demons’ Co-Principal Partner Zurich Australia and Major Partner Beyond Bank Australia have each made a $25,000 donation to The Reach Foundation, which aims to help disadvantaged youth navigate life’s challenges.  

It follows a successful initiative on Thursday, where the duo doubled $21,000 of contributions, made across a 12-hour period, before increasing their donations to a tally of $50,000.   

This marks the fourth consecutive year of support from Zurich, and takes its donation total to $125,000, while Beyond Bank has contributed to the cause in its two years with the club.  

The donations come ahead of Friday night’s blockbuster match against Collingwood, where Melbourne will recognise Reach co-founder and club legend Jim Stynes, 10 years since his passing.  

Linda Griffin, Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Zurich Australia, said it was an honour to, once again, get behind the special game.  

“We’re extremely proud to continue our ongoing support of the annual Round for Reach,” she told Melbourne Media. 

“Jim Stynes’ legacy continues through the thousands of Reach workshops delivered each year. Equipping young Australians with the tools to build emotional resilience and confidence is vitally important and we’re thrilled to play a small part in supporting Reach’s work.” 

Beyond Bank, which supported Round for Reach in 2021, was just as eager to get involved again, following the success of last year’s campaign – Melbourne helped raise over $162,000 with close to 3,000 donations.  

Peter Rutter, GM Strategy, Brand & Community Development at Beyond Bank, reinforced the importance of continually supporting organisations like Reach.   

“It’s a real privilege for Beyond Bank to support the Reach Foundation and the fantastic work it does to give young people the skills they need to get the most out of life,” he said. 

“As one of Australia’s largest customer-owned banks, we partner with more than 4500 not-for-profit organisations around the nation, so we understand the hard work and commitment it takes to succeed. 

“Congratulations to the team at Reach for all that you have achieved, and we are delighted to be alongside you as a community partner." 

The Demons are hoping the generosity will continue in the lead up to the game, calling on the football community to ‘Be Like Jim’ and invest in young Australians.  

By donating $11, which is a nod to Stynes’ jumper number, members and supporters can help shape the next generation and continue Stynes’ legacy.  

Every donation will help fund the extensive training and development of young workshop facilitators, who will then be able to assist young people in overcoming adversity.  

Through its workshops, Reach connects with people aged between 10 and 18, focusing on the development of their social and emotional wellbeing, and giving them the tools to reach their full potential. 

All donations (over $2) are tax-deductible, with the options of one-off or ongoing support. 

Demon fans will also be able to show their support by donning a limited edition ‘Be Like Jim’ badge, a special memento for the round that will be handed out during the Friday night clash.