It’s part of an initiative between Mission Australia and AXA to sponsor 10 children from the Inala area to participate in the 2009/2010 Little Athletics season.
Sally, who won her first major title at age 14 years, has thrown her full support behind the initiative.
“It’s important for all children, from all walks of life, to have the opportunity to be involved in fun activities that can develop and promote positive attitudes, social interaction and healthy lifestyles,” Sally said.
“It was heart-warming to see these kids – who normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to participate in Little Athletics – being given this chance. Mission Australia and AXA are doing a wonderful thing for these kids.”
The initiative will enable the provision of sporting uniforms, transport to and from events, and a dedicated resource from Mission Australia to support the participants and their families during the 2009/2010 Little Athletics season.Mission Australia spokesperson, Mayleen Etakai, said one of the aims of the initiative with AXA is to break down the social barriers the children face on a day-to-day basis.
“With one in every 10 families living in poverty in the Inala area – some of the children in this community don’t have the same opportunities as other kids their age,” Mayleen said.
“We’re hoping, with the support of Sally and AXA, our program starts changing the lives of these 10 kids and helps them have some fun and make new friends in the process.”
AXA General Manager Sales and Marketing Adrian Emery said they are proud to be involved in such an initiative.
“AXA has a long standing commitment to supporting the local communities in which we conduct business. Our AXA Charitable Trust donates over one million dollars each year to supporting charities assisting sick or disadvantaged children,” Mr Emery said.
“We feel our partnership with Mission Australia will give these kids an opportunity they otherwise would never have received and, through Little Athletics, give them the confidence to reach their full potential.”
Sally said she spoke to the children about her experiences at the Olympics and Berlin World Championships.
“I couldn’t wait to get out there and see the talent at Browns Plains Little Athletics. Hopefully my story can inspire them and who knows, we may even find our next Olympic medallist right here!”
To view Brown Plains Little Athletics' website photo gallery, with images from the day please visit: www.brownsplainslittleathletics.org.au/gallery.php
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