Bravehearts To Launch ‘Covert’ Volunteer Operation As White Balloon Day Prepares For Lift-Off

National child protection advocate Bravehearts is seeking creative volunteer go-getters to participate in a raft of top secret initiatives in the lead up to its 16th annual White Balloon Day on 7 September.
The organisation is urging volunteers to play their part with a white theme as it seeks to raise $500,000 to make Australia the safest place to raise a child..
Bravehearts will roll out the initiatives, which may include fundraising assistance, ambush marketing and a range of exciting campaigns where businesses can ‘white out’ their offices.
Bravehearts founder and executive director Hetty Johnston, said the organisation is thinking outside the square this year and encourages volunteers to get involved and have some fun while protecting Australian kids.
“Our volunteers and supporters are so important to making White Balloon Day a success,” said Mrs Johnston.
“While there will be some elaborate schemes and themes taking place, support can be as simple as becoming a volunteer, tying a white balloon to your letterbox or hosting a fundraising function, while schools across the country can hold a ‘wear white Friday’ event.”
The Australia-wide event coincides with National Child Protection Week as schools, councils and organisations around the country get set to participate in the event to help break the silence on child sexual assault and reduce an alarming statistic – that one in five children will be sexually assaulted before their 18th birthday.
“White Balloon Day is about encouraging kids to come forward and break the silence, while we raise the necessary funds to ensure vital support networks and programs can continue,” said Mrs Johnston.
“The Bravehearts’ army comprises survivors, parents, friends, partners, professionals and non-abusive community members who share in the belief that child sexual assault must stop.”
Bravehearts provides an education program called Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure to schools and day care centres nation-wide that educates, empowers and protects, ensuring children are equipped with the confidence to come forward and the skills required to handle themselves when faced with an unsafe situation.
Mrs Johnston urged everyone to get involved and do their bit to help protect Australian kids on White Balloon Day.
“While we have an ambitious target to raise $500,000, everyone can do their bit. The issues are serious but the onus is on making the events fun where everyone can participate,” she said.
“We are asking you to help us raise money to make Australia the safest place to raise a child. It is about educating, empowering and protecting our children and their futures.”
Individuals and groups wishing to volunteer can register online at www.whiteballoonday.com.au plus organisations can register their event online and receive a kit which includes posters, flyers, a donation box, balloons, a White Balloon Day guide and a letter of consent to fundraise. Additional ideas for community participation can be found online.