LIFELINE WA and Perth based internet service provider iiNet have joined forces to raise awareness and vital funds for Western Australians in need at the inaugural iiNet Black Diamond Ball set for Saturday July 16.
The event will be one of Lifeline WA’s biggest fundraisers of the year and will generate funds to expand the organisation’s community education programs and train more telephone counsellors.
Lifeline chief executive Amanda Wheeler said fundraising initiatives such as the iiNet Black Diamond Ball helped it meet the increasing demand on its services.
“Each year, more than 45,000 Western Australians call our crisis support line and, with more people dying from suicide than on our roads; it’s crucial we’re able to answer each and every call we receive,” she said.
iiNet communications manager Anthony Fisk said the internet service provider was proud of its association with Lifeline WA.
“Both Lifeline WA and iiNet are all about connecting people and we’re passionate about helping them connect those in the community that may be in crisis with help,” he said.
Ms Wheeler said iiNet was the first telecommunications provider in Australia to make access to crisis telephone counseling services free of charge for its customers.
“Their sponsorship of the Black Diamond Ball takes our partnership one step further and it will greatly contribute to the success of the event,” she said.