By Jessica Anstice
Outlook Community Centre in Pakenham held its annual White Ribbon fundraiser on Thursday.
Over 80 people stepped up to build awareness and help end violence against women.
Outlook Deputy CEO Anne McCormick surfaced how important these types of events are within the community and the work that Outlook has been doing to raise awareness.
“The afternoon went extremely well,” Ms McCormick said.
The event is run in conjunction with Cardinia Shire Council and Aligned Leisure.
“It was great to see the connecting work being done and working together to bring about change and awareness,” Ms McCormick said.
“Nine out of 10 women with a disability experience violence or abuse in some way and that’s too many.
“I feel it’s our responsibility to have information available about women’s rights and bring about change.”
The day’s guest speakers consisted of Victoria Police Senior Sergeant Darron Hedge, Richmond Football Club’s People and Culture coordinator Kathryn Stevenson, and Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale.
Aligned Leisure CEO Simon Bryson shared his personal experience and spoke on starting conversations and asking friends and family to start having conversations about domestic abuse and violence against women.
Mr Bryson also involved the guests by inviting them to do just that – going away and having a conversation about family violence, particularly with their male circle of friends.
“It was great to see how our guests got in to the spirit of the event and hotly contested the silent auction items,” Outlook Community Centre White Ribbon ambassador Michael Wright said.
