As the National Manager of Community Fundraising, it is with great pride and gratitude that I thank everyone who participated in this year's One Walk event, helping JDRF raise $956,365 for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.
During our 30th anniversary One Walk, we organised 21 metropolitan and regional One Walk events across Australia, with thanks to our many community One Walk hosts and JDRF team. I was inspired by the enthusiasm shown by our community to participate and bring family and friends on the day.
We could really see your shared ambition to connect with others and celebrate your fundraising success, and I was privileged to witness such a heartwarming display of support and solidarity.
Watching the crowd grow in my home state of South Australia made me quite emotional. After personally participating in over 40 One Walk events during my time at JDRF, it was particularly special to see everyone returning to the event following such a long hiatus.
The One Walk events around the country were full of stage performances, musical entertainment, artists, and activities for kids, as well as opportunities to learn and gain support. With bright costumes, colourful faces, and beautiful arts and crafts, the events were like a butterfly finally emerging from its cocoon.
It equally made me realise how much progress we've made in the research space. With the help of you, our superheroes, we can continue to progress and achieve even more in 2024.
I truly hope that everyone who participated in this year’s One Walk event, whether they took part face-to-face or virtually, felt a sense of community and connectedness. I also wish to acknowledge those community members who disappointingly had their local events hampered by rain or cancelled – thank you for your support and understanding! Luckily, these were few and far between and we hope to bring events back to these locations next year.
We hope to see you in 2024 at a One Walk location. If you wish to express your interest please do so here.
