A Sydney-based boutique agency has donated $20,000 to mental health resource Beyond Blue, outstripping its own fundraising expectations.
Richard Matthews Real Estate in Strathfield had hoped to contribute a total of $10,000 raised through community gifts and a corporate match to the not-for-profit organisation when it set its fundraising goal back in June.
When the team raised $8,450 from their outreach, the company decided to recognise the mammoth effort by rounding up its own donation to $11,550, bringing the total to an even $20,000.
On choosing to direct their fundraising efforts towards mental health, Richard Matthews director and auctioneer Matthew Everingham said that the work being done by Beyond Blue was needed now more than ever.
“The work Beyond Blue do is invaluable, even more so in a time like this, we see the impact in our industry especially,” he said.
Richard Baini, also a director and auctioneer at the company, described the team’s reaction to the community’s generous support.
“What has been most uplifting is seeing so many people reach out during difficult financial times for themselves, to protect and show care to others in need. This has been a beautiful experience and our team are forever grateful for the compassion shown by everyone,” Mr Baini said.
The agency reports that their gift of $20,000 will directly help 418 people seek support from Beyond Blue’s mental health professionals either through a phone call, web chat, or email.
Mr Everingham urged anyone struggling, as well as the friends and families of those at risk to take advantage of the 24/7 support service and to start conversations with each other.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to those close to you, and remind those in need there is support available, it might just change their life.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Juliet Helmke
Based in Sydney, Juliet Helmke has a broad range of reporting and editorial experience across the areas of business, technology, entertainment and the arts. She was formerly Senior Editor at The New York Observer.
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