ZURICH Australia has made a $25,000 donation to The Reach Foundation, supporting the not-for-profit organisation’s continued work in the youth space.

Appearing on Channel Seven’s The Front Bar on Wednesday evening, ruckman Max Gawn made the special announcement, presenting the cheque on behalf of Melbourne’s co-principal partner.

Zurich Head of Marketing, Communications & Government Relations Richard Dunkerley said the donation was for a very deserving cause.

“As a life insurer, we know first-hand the impact that poor mental health can have on our communities,” he said.

“We want to help improve mental health outcomes for people of all ages, including young Australians, which is why we’re proud to support Reach.”

The donation comes on the foundation’s 25^th year anniversary and ahead of ‘The Round for Reach’.

Melbourne’s dedicated round, in which recognises Reach founder and club legend Jim Stynes, aims to raise awareness to help young Australians in building self-confidence and combatting negative behaviours, such as online bullying.

The Demons will take a stand against the cyber-attacks, running through a banner featuring real-life negative tweets this Friday night, before taking on Essendon at the MCG.

“It’s come at a pretty good time, to be honest,” Gawn said.

“AFL seems to be going through a fair bit of online bullying, harassment and discrimination through social media – it seems like Jim was ahead of his time in a way, starting this organisation 25 years ago.

“It’s sort of at the forefront of all of our minds right now, so hopefully it creates a bit of awareness and we can raise a bit of money for Reach.”

With more than one in five young Australians subject to online bullying, the foundation’s message is one that needs to be shared to be solved.  

To support Reach’s important work and help tear online bullying down, text ‘REACH’ to 0455 021 021 or click HERE.