So this Sept is the big 4.0 for me. I’ve been asked all year how I was going to mark the occasion and I really didn’t know. I wanted to do something special, something that had an impact and something that gave back.
A few weeks ago I was fortunate enough to be introduced to the incredible Scott Watters who founded Life Changer.
Immediately, it was an absolute meeting of minds. What he’s created is nothing short of exceptional and this Sept I’m beyond humbled to accompany him and 13 other life challengers and incredible ambassadors from around Australia to undertake their 4th Life Changer Challenge on Lord Howe Island.
I couldn’t think of any other way I would rather mark my 40th year.
This challenge will challenge me like no other...physically and mentally, I won’t lie I’m scared - but it’s what I ask of those I work with every day, to lead by example and its a cause so close to my heart, it was a no brainer.
I’ve led and coached many teams throughout my life from Sport to Legal/HR and now a family. I haven’t always gotten it right but one thing I’ve always been committed to is learning from every experience I have.
The driving force behind the vision for LifeChanger comes from an alarming set of statistics:
• Youth suicide is still the number 1 killer of young Australians;
• 1 in 6 kids (7 - 15 yrs) has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder;
• 1 teenager in every classroom has a gambling addiction;
• 1 in 4 leave the education system prematurely;
• 50% increase in hospital admissions because of children self-harming between
2010 and 2015;
• 1 in 5 kids have deliberately sniffed inhalants (12 - 17 yrs);
• 38% of adolescents consume alcohol weekly (14+ yrs);
• 50% of teenagers experience cyber bullying;
• 1 in 4 kids are overweight or obese (5 - 17 yrs).
Not one of these statistics is improving. Not one.
The LifeChanger Foundation is on an epic mission to turn these stats around and create a generational shift in society. LifeChanger believes that by providing young Australians with the tools to develop a positive self-identity they will be empowered to live their best life.
The LifeChanger program develops an adolescent's self-identity by nurturing the individual across five key pillars;
Wellbeing, Life-Skills, Self-Awareness, Purpose & Meaning and Connections
LifeChanger's revolutionary approach will give every young Australian unprecedented access to programs within their community and a first-of-its-kind digital platform providing a pathway to their best life. Moreover, the digital platform and community engagement will mean ongoing, responsive support.
I am investing significant time, energy and money into this cause because I firmly believe in it and that our kids deserve better. I don’t want any of our kids to be another statistic.
My mission is to raise $20,000 to add to my personal contribution and I would love it if you would help by sponsoring me with a donation.
We know something has to change. LifeChanger is that change.
LifeChanger is a Tier 1 DGR Status Charity. All donations are tax deductible.
I’d absolutely love your support. Any donation large or small would be greatly appreciated.
Good luck from Bennett St Dairy! x