Supporting life after service: Fortem’s new CMP retirement workshop
A former police officer will lead a four-person team to compete in the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim in February while raising funds for Fortem Australia.
Collectively, the team has already raised $4,250 for Fortem, Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisation which supports the wellbeing and mental health of first responders and their families.
Former police officer and current Fortem ambassador Peter Henry said he was inspired to fundraise for Fortem because he has seen first-hand the impacts first responder work can have on people’s mental health and wellbeing.
“Fortem Australia plays a vital role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of first responders and their families, providing essential services that help them navigate the unique challenges of their roles today,” Peter said.
“For me, raising awareness and funds for Fortem is crucial to ensure these brave individuals – my friends, former colleagues, my blue family – receive the support they need to thrive in both their professional and personal lives.”
He will be joined by serving police officer Alisha Perkins, former police officer Hayley Bird and former Port Adelaide AFL player Michael Pettigrew on the 19.7km open water swim.
Fortem provides a range of clinical services, social activities, career management programs and wellbeing resources aimed at building resilience and social connection for first responders and their families through early intervention.
That work is only possible through funding grants, corporate partnerships and generous donations, such as those raised by Peter and his team through the swim.
Fortem CEO Mick Willing APM, a former first responder himself, praised the four swimmers for their exceptional generosity and commitment to Fortem’s work.
“Fortem’s services makes a real difference in the lives of first responders and their families, and we are delighted Peter, Alisha, Hayley and Michael have chosen to raise funds for Fortem while participating in the swim,” he said.
“The generosity of their sponsors will help us expand our reach and services, while their efforts raising awareness for Fortem’s work will help educate more first responders about reaching out for support.”
That generosity includes Perth business Simply Cool Air Conditioning who has come on board as the team’s first platinum sponsor with a $2,500 donation.
To support the team’s fundraising efforts, visit: https://rottnestchannelswim25.grassrootz.com/fortem-australia/fortem
To find out more about Fortem Australia’s work in supporting first responders and their families, visit https://fortemaustralia.org.au.
