Cricket Australia and the Alannah & Madeline Foundation are encouraging cricket clubs across the country to raise their bats this summer to give children in cricket clubs a voice to create safe and inclusive environments.
The Raise Your Bats – Kids helping kids initiative is part of the Foundation’s new role as the Official Major Charity Partner of Woolworths Cricket Blast.
The initiative aims to empower children by giving them the opportunity to drive fundraising activities within their Woolworths Cricket Blast centre or cricket club.
Funds raised will go towards the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, the leading national charity working to protect children from the effects of violence and bullying.
Today, 100 Woolworths Cricket Blast kids will be wearing purple Cricket Blast tops during the Day 3 lunch break of the Vodafone Boxing Day Test to raise awareness for the initiative.
Woolworths Cricket Blasters and junior cricketers are encouraged to get creative with their ideas for fundraising events which could include wearing a touch of purple on a match day or putting a challenge to a coach.
Alannah & Madeline Foundation CEO, Sarah Davies AM, said that while the Raise Your Bats – Kids helping kids initiative will instil a sense of giving amongst the young Blasters community, the money they raise will help the Foundation to keep children and young people safe from violence and bullying.
“Clubs can choose the best weekend and activity that works for them during this summer season of cricket,” Ms Davies said.
“It is because of partners like Cricket Australia, programs like Woolworths Cricket Blast and community clubs, members, players and leadership that we can create a safer world for children. We are truly grateful.”
Australian Women’s Cricket Team captain and Alannah & Madeline Foundation Ambassador, Meg Lanning, is also encouraging Woolworths Cricket Blast centres and junior cricket clubs to get behind such an important initiative.
“The Raise Your Bats initiative is a great opportunity for Woolworths Cricket Blasters and junior cricketers to help support children across the country,” Lanning said.
“We’re really proud to support such a great cause that will help keep children and young people safe from violence and bullying.”
James Allsopp, Cricket Australia’s Executive General Manager, Community Cricket & Capability, said that providing a safe and inclusive environment in cricket clubs where children and young people feel free to speak up is a priority.
“We understand that giving children and young people a voice within their clubs builds trust and creates a positive environment for them to flourish,” Allsopp said.
“Raise Your Bats is a proactive and fun way for kids to own something in their club and learn about generosity at the same time.”
Clubs can register for the initiative and gain fundraising ideas here.
