Diploma of Sport (Sport Development)/Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS50319/BSB51918) students recently had the opportunity to volunteer with Richmond Football Club’s preferred charity partner, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation.
The Foundation cares for children who have experienced or witnessed serious violence, by facilitating various programs and initiatives to support those in need.
Buddy Bags are backpacks that are full of essential supplies for children seeking emergency accommodation. These bags include a toothbrush, PJ’s, a book, and a teddy bear.
Richmond Institute students helped the Foundation pack the latest Buddy Bags crop, to be distributed to the children that need them the most.
Former student and current Richmond Institute staff member, Jack Kennedy, discussed the overall experience of packing Buddy Bags for the Foundation.
“The day began with an eye-opening introduction on the history of the Foundation and some stories of what some of the kids have gone through,” he said.
“The Buddy Bags go out to kids in emergency situations or in times of need where they have to flee their homes, some with nothing but the clothes on their back.
“Making these up and knowing how much it means to these kids makes you appreciate all of the small things.”
Current student, Skye Haslem, explained how the experience had a significant impact on her.
“Our mission for the day was to pack as many bags as possible for all different age groups,” she said.
“An experience like this can really make you reflect on the way you take things for granted in life, and this had an impact on how I view my own lifestyle.
“I left the day appreciating everything and everyone around me and couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
Since the Club formed its partnership with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation in 2012, Richmond has raised more than $1.2 million for the charity.
This also includes contributing to the distribution of 75,000 Buddy Bags.
Students will continue to have volunteer opportunities with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation in the future.
