Leading the Change Program

Leading the Change Program

 

Ten community clubs in AFL Yarra Ranges have made a stance against violence to women as part of a new education initiative.

 

In partnership with Yarra Valley Water and Eastern Health, AFL Yarra Ranges has created a welfare program called Leading the Change, which provides clubs with education and development sessions.

 

Facilitated by SALT (Sport and Life Training), the program focuses on two key areas in mental health and respect and responsibility.

 

The ten participating clubs – ranging from junior to senior clubs – will received the training over a three year period.

 

AFL Yarra Ranges Region General Manager Aaron Bailey said that the program was vital in ensuring football was a welcoming place in the community.

 

“A clear focus of the AFL Yarra Ranges commission is to invest in projects that have social benefit for our community,” he said.

 

“With over 50% of the sides in our competition being female, this program aims to provide support to every community across the region and assist in ensuring our clubs and communities provide inclusive, safe and supportive environments for women.

 

“This is a powerful example of the positive impact that football and netball clubs can have on our communities.

 

“We are really proud of this program, it is a significant undertaking and one that supports two key AFL Victoria state-wide Rounds in Beyond Blue and White Ribbon.”

 

The clubs involved in ‘Leading the Change’ program include:

 

Healesville FNC

Woori Yallock

Warbuton/Millgrove

Wandin SFC

Powelltown

Yarra Glen

Yarra Junction

Seville

Wandin JFC

Gembrook Cockatoo JFC