1. Why have you been locked up?
Dan: Marianna, who is also my girlfriend, told me I had to. But on a serious note, I know people with mental health issues so I am passionate about the support that Lifeline offers.
Graffy: Because I should have been locked up a long time ago!! (jokes) Lifeline provide much needed services to the community in the mental help space. This is a great fundraiser to be a part of and get behind.
Gorry: I think Tolo thought she could get out of training this way. But we do realise how important it is to help create awareness of mental health and the tireless work that Lifeline does to help.
2. How are you going to get enough support to post bail?
We know how generous the Canberra community is so we will be drawing on their support to give anything that they possibly can.
3. Have you set a bail goal? Any unique fundraising strategies?
$2000. We have a superstar social media manager in our office, Ruby, and we will be leaning on her expertise to do some social posting. We may also leave our tin by our favourite coffee shop on campus.
4. How important to you, and/or your organisation is mental health, and why?
Mental health is a huge issue that affects many members in our society today. Unfortunately this was highlighted in our last WNBL season when Jenna O’Hea, from the Deakin Melbourne Boomers, announced that her uncle had passed due to suicide. Her honesty and willingness to share was inspirational. She went on to lead the organisation of a Lifeline Australia fundraising round, which raised $15,600 http://wnbl.com.au/blog/news/chemist-warehouse-wnbl-and-clubs-donate-15600-to-lifeline/ Having someone in our close-knit basketball community have to deal with a family member taking their own life, highlighted how mental health issues do not discriminate, they can affect anyone.
At the university of Canberra they take mental health seriously and will often hold certain events to help decrease stress levels. This includes movie nights, lunchtime mindfulness classes and even occasionally a petting zoo! Adjusting to university life can be difficult but if problems persist students are encouraged to seek help through a number of outlets. Counselling services are provided for students at the Medical and Counselling Centre and Employee Assistance Programs are offered to staff off campus. The UC Multi-faith Centre Chaplaincy offer pastoral care services to all staff and students. Lifeline is one of these recommended contacts.