The Leukaemia Foundation says its support for Australians with blood cancer will receive a significant boost by a three-year commitment, worth at least $250,000, from South Australian air-conditioning manufacturer, Seeley International, announced this week.
The important partnership comes in the form of major sponsorship of the Leukaemia Foundation’s newest and most inspiring fundraising event, Light the Night.
“We are delighted in Seeley International’s decision to partner Light the Night for the next three years,” said Peter Cox, CEO of the Leukaemia Foundation of Australia.
“As a foundation partner of our pilot Light the Night event held in Adelaide in 2008, this recent decision reflects a deeper understanding of the Leukaemia Foundation’s important work and a desire to contribute to community wellbeing.
“The support of the corporate sector to the not-for-profit sector is well known, but it could be tempting in less certain economic times, for companies to adopt a more cautious philanthropic effort.
“We congratulate Mr Frank Seeley AM and his team for taking a long-term view of corporate citizenship, and giving us confidence to develop Light the Night to increase its fundraising and awareness raising potential.” he said.
The Chairman and founder of Seeley International, Frank Seeley AM, said that he had been inspired by the concept of the very first Light the Night event and wanted to continue be a vital part of it.
“This event is so inspiring and it has become an important source of funds to help combat blood cancers, as well as raising the public’s awareness.
“Seeley International and its wonderful national dealer team simply love it!” he said.
This year, more than 11,000 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a related blood disorder, equivalent to 31 people each day. The Leukaemia Foundation invests millions to find cures each year, and provides free services to support patients and their families.