Over the weekend volunteers were out in force across the country supporting the Salvation Army’s major annual fundraiser, the Red Shield Appeal. Assisting in this worthy cause was a group of enthusiastic Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes collecting donations at Wollongong Woolworths and doorknocking in their local suburb.
The Illawarra Academy of Sport prides itself on developing athletes holistically and producing young ambassadors for the Illawarra community. The local community generously supports the IAS athletes and programs, and in turn part of the requirements of an IAS athlete is to give back to the community through volunteering and supporting community-based events or services such as the Red Shield Appeal.
Across the Red Shield Doorknock weekend, held on 25-26 May 2019, over 25 IAS volunteers managed the Community Collection Stand at Wollongong Woolworths raising $1363.75 in cash donations, in addition to abundant ‘Tap&Go’ donations. It was a great opportunity for the athletes to assist in raising much-needed funds to assist the Salvation Army in providing social welfare and community service programs. The Red Shield Appeal runs from April to June each year with the money used heavily to provide beds to the homeless, emergency and disaster relief, disability programs, family welfare relief and refuge for women and children in crisis.
John Armstrong, CEO of the Illawarra Academy of Sport, expressed his pride in the outstanding job by the athletes throughout the Red Shield Appeal and how well they conducted themselves to the community.
Donations can still be made to the 2019 Red Shield Appeal until 3 June by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or online at https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/donate/make-a-donation/donate-online/
