A charity founded to initially help one family during the worst time in their lives is soon to celebrate its 500th recipient assisted, inspired by the love and support of the community. Rally for a Cause was founded 12 years ago after a group of friends learned of the plight of Nikenbah child Cooper Christensen, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.
The group wanted to assist the family during this life-changing time and devised the concept of the Dunga Derby – an affordable car rally that might raise some funds to help sustain the family while they were unable to work and living in Brisbane for Cooper’s treatment. With the groundswell of support from the Fraser Coast community and generous businesses, the Dunga Derby was born, and this month will embark on its 12th annual event.
Rally for a Cause board chair Kara Mehmet said the charity’s success was a direct reflection of the community’s compassion and its desire to help strangers in their time of need. “We are about to assist our 500th family and have raised more than $5.3 million since the start. This hasn’t come from government assistance or grant money; this is from the hearts and pockets of the communities we serve.
“We are so proud that our community rallies together to offer support and financial relief when it’s needed most, because no one should face hardship alone.” Ms Mehmet said that when unexpected illness or tragic circumstance strikes, the impact is profound—emotionally, physically and financially. “Our goal is simple: we work directly with these eligible recipients to ease the burden as best we can.
“We’ve been able to provide families and individuals with financial assistance towards travel to Brisbane for treatment, food on the table, help with overdue school fees, pharmacy bills, car servicing, and access to medical procedures and rehabilitation equipment. We’ve supported families who have suddenly lost a parent or breadwinner, created sensory gardens for children with special needs, and assisted with funeral costs.”
“Help comes in many forms, and for our recipients, knowing they belong to a community that cares makes all the difference.”
More than 270 locals united for the annual Dunga Derby four-day mystery rally, the charity’s major fundraiser. The event ran from July 30 to August 3.
To learn more about Rally for a Cause, Dunga Derby, or to nominate a recipient, visit www.rallyforacause.org.au
