Running for positive social change: Natalie’s story

Every year, thousands of people hit the pavement for Run Melbourne and make their steps count by raising funds for their chosen charity.

There are many different reasons why people choose to support Berry Street: from feeling a strong connection to our work and receiving support from us during a time of need, to their school introducing the Berry Street Education Model. Our work with children, young people and families brings people together for a common cause.

Natalie, a teacher and student, took on the challenge of Run Melbourne for the first time in July 2019. Here Natalie shares her experience of running for Berry Street.

What inspired you to run for Berry Street?

Run Melbourne is the first running event I've participated in and I wanted to support a cause close to my heart. I recognise the vital role that Berry Street plays in striving to ensure Victorian children and families are safe. I am inspired by and cherish Berry Street’s work and the positive footprints they create, particularly where they are a champion for children through their services and advocacy work.

What were your highlights?

I was pleased to participate in my first running event, but the aspect I was most proud of was representing team Berry Street and wearing the organisation’s singlet with honour.

What are your top fundraising tips?

I set my fundraising target at $1,000 and was able to surpass this as a result of sharing Berry Street’s stories of impact with my family, friends and colleagues. I shared my fundraising page regularly on social media as well as over email. I believe that sharing inspiring and moving stories with the wider community connects everyone to Berry Street’s work.

If you were to fundraise for a similar event again, what other tactics would you use?

I would like to trial new ways of raising money such as bake sales, a dinner event, a themed high tea, and so on. I would also like to try a ‘match my kilometres’ tactic as part of the training in the lead up to the running event, for example 10km = $10.

What would you say to someone who was thinking of signing up to run for Berry Street?

The event, including the lead up, will be inspiring and it will contribute to the work of an organisation that is nothing short of remarkable. Your participation and fundraising efforts will directly impact the lives of Victorian children who deserve to live safe and happy lives, like all children do.

Running for Berry Street as part of Run Melbourne has allowed my family, friends, colleagues and I to be part of positive social change. I cannot wait to be part of such a wonderful event again and hope to run for team Berry Street at the next Run Melbourne.

Thanks to our amazing supporters, almost $24,000 was raised for the Berry Street School through Run Melbourne in 2019.