Solider On Australia supports service personnel who have been injured, physically or psychologically, in the line of duty.
Currently serving in the RAAF Reserves, Lachlan Woolford started the ‘Vested for a Cause’ campaign through Soldier On last year after noticing little support for ex-veterans.
A number of generous locals are doing their bit by participating in the challenge, including Narrabri’s own Daniel Hobden.
The 30-day initiative tackles the heavy subject of veteran support – quite literally – by challenging participants to wear a 10kg vest throughout the day, only taking it off to sleep and shower.
Supporters can donate to their friends and family for keeping up the challenge for an entire month, with funds and awareness going towards returning servicemen and women suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
While some local workplaces are sharing the weighted vest between team members, Mr Hobden is representing C. L. Dickinson Auto Electrics singlehandedly.
His original fundraising target was $1000, but Mr Hobden has well-surpassed that goal.
“So far, I’ve raised just under $8000 for the organisation,” he said.
“I’m honoured to have been a part of Vested for a Cause and would certainly do it again.”
Mr Hobden says he joined in after being inspired by Mr Woolford, his former schoolmate, after seeing his efforts last year.
As well as being friends with the campaign’s creator, Mr Hobden said he took part this year because it’s a cause he truly believes in.
“I have family who have served, and I also know there’s a lot of people my age which struggle with mental health issues like PTSD,” he said.
“There wouldn’t be very many people whose lives haven’t been affected by the impacts of war on servicemen and women.”
Mr Hobden says the weighted vest is a fitting symbol of the pressure put on those fighting for our country.
“But, after the 30 days are up, I can take the vest off,” he said.
“People suffering from war-related mental illnesses can’t do that, so it’s important they’re supported however possible.”
To support the local Vested for a Cause team in their phenomenal efforts this year, head to the website.
See more on Vested for a Cause:
- ‘VESTED for a Cause’ back bigger and better
- Lachlan Woolford vests up for a month for a cause close to his heart
