JIM STYNES was as selfless as they come.
The Demons ruckman and co-founder of The Reach Foundation devoted his whole life to helping young people – and has inspired many others to do the same.
Reach facilitator Alishia Francis is one of them.
Starting out with the not-for-profit organisation when she was just 16, Alishia has had the opportunity to connect with the nation’s youth for the past seven years.
Asking participants to step out of their comfort zone, take risks and believe in themselves, she’s encapsulated what it means to Be Like Jim, leaving a lasting impact on those she encounters.
As a first-generation Australian whose parents migrated from India, Alishia has faced her own struggles in life but has a most impressive positivity.
Her ability to rise above, stay true to her beliefs and continue to encourage others to be the best version of themselves rings true to Reach’s mission.
And that’s something Melbourne’s Major Partner Beyond Bank wanted to recognise.
With Alishia continually going above and beyond, the customer-owned financial institute had originally planned to surprise and host her at the Demons’ Round for Reach match against Adelaide this Sunday.
As this was no longer an option, due to the ongoing COVID crisis, Beyond Bank instead arranged for a special Zoom with key forward, Ben Brown.
Despite being a little bemused as to why the focus was on her, the pair were able to chat about Reach’s impact on the community, and Alishia’s contribution to its cause.
A signed guernsey from Beyond Bank made for an extra special call, with Alishia being a big Dees fan herself.
It comes as Melbourne continues to support Reach and this year’s Be Like Jim campaign, which encourages the football community to believe in young Australians.
Be like Jim. ?
— Melbourne Demons (@melbournefc) August 10, 2021
This week, we will recognise the work of club legend Jim Stynes + honour his legacy that lives on through The Reach Foundation.
Support the Round for Reach ?? https://t.co/Gy1wlWoABA pic.twitter.com/V2jodfumD6
By donating $11, fans can help facilitators, just like Alishia, improve the wellbeing of young people across the country.
Beyond Bank has already thrown its support behind the campaign, making a significant contribution of $10,000, and is encouraging others to dig deep and help Reach’s cause.
