Login
iscover
A cute and cuddly “Digger” German Shepherd puppy mascot is about to be unveiled by uniform manufacturer Australian Defence Apparel, in cooperation with Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
An official launch event for the plushie is planned this Saturday, 18 May, at TwistED Science in Moorabbin, Victoria, to be attended by volunteers, young leaders and corporate representatives.
Under the collaboration, with every plushie purchased, all proceeds will directly support Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation (AKKF) programs to assist the unique needs of young people from current and former Australian Defence Force families.
Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation chief executive officer Renée Coffey said both groups are committed to support the mental health and well-being of young individuals across Australia.
“We are so excited to continue our partnership with Australian Defence Apparel (ADA),” Coffey said.
“To date, ADA has generously contributed $75,000 to Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation programs, providing crucial support to young people in families impacted by mental illness.
“Along with ADA’s unwavering support of Kookaburra Kids, this initiative marks a significant step forward in recognising the invaluable service of our heroic four-legged soldiers who stand alongside their courageous human counterparts.
“We have eagerly anticipated the launch of this new endeavour in 2024, envisioning DIGGER, a beloved mascot, bringing joy to the hearts of many fortunate young people.”
Australian Defence Apparel chief executive officer Chris Dixon said ADA has a longstanding partnership with AKKF as a founding partner and this initiative marks a significant stride in recognising the invaluable service of both human and four-legged heroes.
“DIGGER embodies ADA’s commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of young individuals across Australia and this initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to supporting young people from defence families facing adversity.
“Through the DIGGER Plushie Program and our partnership with AKKF, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these courageous individuals and provide a beacon of hope for children navigating difficult circumstances.
“We are proud to be a founding partner of the Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation and honoured to present DIGGER as a conduit for raising funds that empower young individuals.”
The launch of DIGGER the Plushie German Shepherd marks the beginning of a journey filled with compassion and solidarity. ADA and AKKF remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering a brighter future for generations to come, according to ADA’s Jason Semple.
“Early intervention with a focus on the provision of psychological and resilience measures are essential tools for emotional regulation, which in turn provide proven cognitive avenues that allow our kids to transform post-traumatic events into ‘post traumatic growth’,” he said.
“Teaching our kids to harness the effects of adversity in a manner which promotes positivity and long-term healthy psychological pathways, will promote resilience and happiness now and as they transition into adulthood.”
For more information CLICK HERE.
