In a remarkable display of community support, our annual orange sock campaign, now in its third year, has successfully raised over $21,500 for Lifeline Australia. The initiative, aimed at promoting mental health awareness, saw enthusiastic participation from our leagues and associations, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to destigmatise mental health issues.
The orange sock campaign began with the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) three years ago, with proceeds from sock sales earmarked for Lifeline, a national charity providing 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. The initiative's success led to its expansion, with NBL1 South and, most recently, Big V joining the cause.
Throughout the 2023 season, athletes across the state had the opportunity to purchase league-specific orange socks or customise them with their association's logo. Our Mental Health Round, held across the leagues, saw players proudly donning the vibrant orange socks, symbolising their commitment to support mental health awareness.
Greg Jeffers, Leagues and Competitions General Manager, expressed pride in the Victorian basketball community's response to the initiative. "Across all our leagues this year, it was great to see so many orange socks on the court, from our NBL1 South athletes all the way through to our littlest VJBL athletes," he said.
As an organisation, we recognise the critical importance of aligning ourselves with entities that actively contribute to the well-being of our community. Lifeline Australia aligns with our values in supporting to our community in a variety of ways.
National Manager, Marketing and Campaigns at Lifeline Australia James Duffy, is grateful that we are willing to highlight the importance of mental health within our community whilst at the same time raise funds so that Lifeline can continue to support people when they need it the most.
“Lifeline Australia is deeply grateful to Basketball Victoria for recognising the importance of positive mental health and taking a proactive stance in fostering a community where coaches, athletes, and individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. With over 1.2 million Australians contacting Lifeline for help in the past year, Basketball Victoria’s support has never been more significant. This collaboration exemplifies the positive change that can be achieved when organisations unite in their commitment to the well-being of our communities. Together, we are sending a powerful message that no one should face their deepest challenges alone” he said.
Our donation of $21,503.75 has enabled Lifeline to be there to answer the call for help from over 550 people going through their darkest moments.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24/7), text 0477 131 114 (24/7), chat to Lifeline online at Lifeline.org.au or visit the Support Toolkit to self -manage what you’re going through at toolkit.lifeline.org.au
