VenuesWest Teams Up with Football Futures and A Stitch in Time for Community Partner Program

VenuesWest proudly welcomes two new local charities to its Community Partner Program, offering benefits through its unique position as a leader in WA’s sports and entertainment industry.

Football Futures Foundation and A Stitch in Time will enter two-year partnerships, while existing charity What Ability Foundation will remain until 2026.

The program, established in 2016, supports charities to achieve their core objectives through tailored opportunities and allows VenuesWest to give back to the communities in which it operates.

Football Futures Foundation uses the universal appeal of football to engage priority communities, promote wellbeing and inclusion, and build skills. Working in partnership with the community, the foundation provides safe grassroots programs for all, especially people living with disability, youth at risk, culturally and racially marginalised groups and those who face barriers participating in mainstream football.

A Stitch in Time promotes wellbeing through advocacy, education and social connection for individuals and communities. Its programs focus on mentoring, prevention, building resilience and fostering positive mental wellbeing. The non-profit invests in four key areas to help ensure people never enter a state of crisis in the first place; on the ground advocacy, youth and community mental health research, workshops and partnerships, and education to help people support others in their life.

What Ability Foundation continues to unlock experiences for people living with a disability and their families, particularly in sport and entertainment. The team are on a mission to provide one million experiences to their participants, and VenuesWest is thrilled to continue assisting the foundation to achieve this.

Charities Second Bite and Ronald McDonald House were also chosen for bespoke benefits during the year.

VenuesWest also farewelled previous partners Good Sammy Enterprises and Asthma WA, thanking them for their collaboration over the last two years.

Comments attributed to Stuart Lyon, VenuesWest Acting Chief Executive Officer:

“VenuesWest are proud to give back to the community through the Community Partner Program.

“It is a privilege to support these charities, which align with our core values at VenuesWest and our commitment to building strong and respectful relationships, reflective of the communities in which we operate.”

Comments attributed to Michael Kerr, Football Futures Foundation Executive Officer:

“We are thrilled be acknowledged as a Community Partner of VenuesWest. With a shared mission to leverage the universal appeal of sport to strengthen communities and drive social impact, we strongly believe partnering with WA’s leading provider of sports venues will help to amplify the impact of our work and bring world class experiences to the communities we serve.

“Through the support of the VenuesWest Community Partner Program, our team will be better equipped to leverage the power of football (soccer) to advocate for social inclusion, deliver inclusive programs across Western Australia and empower people to participate in their communities.”

Comments attributed to Greg Hire, A Stitch in Time Founder

“At A Stitch in Time, we are dedicated to fostering mental well-being and resilience, particularly among our youth. Through this invaluable partnership with VenuesWest we believe this collaboration marks a significant milestone in our journey to advocate for mental health and education across Western Australia. This support enables us to reach more communities, break down the stigma surrounding mental health, and provide essential education and resources to those in need.

“VenuesWest's commitment to enhancing the lives of Western Australians aligns perfectly with our mission. This partnership is pivotal for us. It amplifies our voice, extends our reach, and solidifies our ability to make a tangible impact. Together with VenuesWest, we will continue to advocate for mental health, educate our communities, and ensure that everyone has the support they need to lead healthier, happier lives. We are incredibly grateful for VenuesWest's support and look forward to achieving extraordinary things together.”

Comments attributed to Jack Burey, What Ability Foundation Manager

“The What Ability Foundation is extremely delighted to extend our partnership with VenuesWest and continue to unlock unforgettable experiences and create memories that will truly last a lifetime for so many families living in WA.

“VenuesWest have been a wonderful organisation to work alongside and are passionate about our shared vision.

“Together, we will do extraordinary things because an inclusive community is a community for everyone!”