Swing For Gumboot Friday

My name is Patrick, I am a 21 year old UoA student. In the past, I've organised a few fundraisers/events for charities and foundations like Cancer Society and Starship foundation.

I organised this event for Gumboot Friday because help address the pressing mental health issues in New Zealand, such as suicide and mental health overrepresentation in our youth.

Growing up in Hawke's Bay, these issues felt much more present. Some of my friends and family don't drive, because they're scared they'll hurt themselves or others. Some don't eat properly, some want to give up and don't know why. I've been in some of their situations too. The region is badly overrepresented in health statistics. Some of the people close to me are part of those statistics.

Change starts with a step. I want to help create an impact that can change those day-by-days into long years, into finding better health.

Swing For Gumboot Friday is a fundraising event at Waitangi Park, Wellington on Thursday 27th Feb. We will be aiming to break the world record for the longest time swinging on a swingset, with sponsors similar to the 40 Hour Challenge.

All proceeds will go to the Gumboot Friday Initiative of the I AM HOPE Foundation, supporting their cause with mental health education, counselling, and suicide prevention. Gumboot Friday specifically focuses on providing free, timely counselling for NZ youth.

We encourage you to share the event, show your support, and if you are in Wellington, come by for a chat on the day.