Loss and Grief Centre Southland and Inclusive Activity Murihiku (iAM) will be the organisation’s community partners for the next two seasons.
Rugby Southland said in a statement ‘‘both organisations are deeply rooted in Southland and provide vital support services that strongly align with Rugby Southland’’.
In the two-year plan, the focus will be shared across fundraising and promoting the charities themselves.
Rugby Southland commercial and business development head Jack King described the selection process as ‘‘competitive but inspiring’’.
‘‘We received 16 applications ... the calibre of organisations was outstanding which made the decision a challenging one.’’
Rugby Southland was excited to see what they could achieve in the coming years, he said.
‘‘It’s about using our platform and Stags brand to actively promote, support and advocate for the important work these organisations do.’’
The Loss and Grief Centre Southland helps those navigate trying times through counselling and community outreach.
‘‘It is such an amazing opportunity to support our rugby community and their whānau,’’ founder and director Caroline Loo said.
There were feelings of excitement and anticipation for the collaboration.
The aim of iAm is to create opportunities for people of all abilities to participate in sport, ensuring inclusion and boosting confidence.
Inclusion and capability manager Megan Leslie said ‘‘[t]his partnership with Rugby Southland is a significant milestone for iAM’’.
‘‘We continue to see the positive impact inclusive sport and recreation has in building confidence, connection and a strong sense of belonging.’’
iAm founder and chair Kerry Douglas said she noticed a gap in support for Southlanders and wanted to move quickly to change that. — Allied Media
