Breakthrough and SACA Join Forces: A Mental Health Partnership
The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) and Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation (Breakthrough) are thrilled to announce a new partnership that will see Breakthrough become the Official Charity Partner of the SACA.
Breakthrough is Australia’s leading independent mental health research foundation, funding world-class research to develop better treatments and preventions for mental illness while also working to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
Aligning on several key pillars, the partnership will see both SACA and Breakthrough taking part in a wide range of exciting initiatives, including working together to deliver important mental health training to staff, players, and the wider cricket community.
The two organisations will explore opportunities to raise funds and awareness for mental health, identify passionate ambassadors to champion the work being done and undertake a trip to the APY Lands, where Breakthrough will complete research consultation with the local schools to support the development of the Big Talks for Little People primary school program and SACA will run cricket clinics for children.
SACA CEO Charlie Hodgson is eager to see the positive benefits that the partnership will produce.
"We are extremely proud to partner with Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation,” Hodgson said.
“Mental health is an issue that affects everyone, and we believe that cricket can play a leading role in raising awareness and breaking down stigma. This is an issue that not only do I have a personal passion for, but I know so many others do too, so it is really exciting to support the vital work that Breakthrough does.
“This partnership will allow us to reach a wide audience with a positive message and help us to make a real difference in the lives of people affected by mental illness. By working together, our two organizations can help to create a more supportive and inclusive community for everyone.”
Breakthrough’s CEO, John Mannion, shares how the new partnership will enable support for the broader cricket community and underscores both organisations’ commitment to mental health.
“We are excited to be partnering with SACA to assist in the development of their mental health and wellbeing program and also connecting with the players’ group to expand the community program to cover the vital mental health conversation,” Mannion said.
“Our partnership offers the opportunity to support the wider cricket community and Breakthrough to help create a life free from mental illness by investing in vital mental health research that impacts the community and changes lives.
“Sport is the perfect vehicle for driving and normalising the mental health conversation, providing a sense of purpose and belonging for our community.”
For any media enquiries, please email: Tom Bell, Media and Comms Specialist at tbell@breakthroughfoundation.org.au
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