Supporting my Run 4 Refugees

An letter to my sponsors, and a request to everyone else.

Just an update to let you know how much I appreciate your donation supporting my participation in the 10k Run 4 Refugees in October.

I hope you’re as proud as I am to be taking a positive step in providing support and assistance for some of Australia’s most vulnerable people. The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre provides a range of much needed material, legal and educational support to courageous people who have been forced to leave their home countries and seek refuge in Australia.

In the current climate, asylum seekers to Australia are routinely demonised by the media and our political leaders, villifed as “illegals”, deprived of basic human rights and either locked away indefintiely or forcibly shipped offshore. Under such appalling circumstances, it is incredibly important to demonstrate that this is not the Australia we represent. We embrace the contribution and richness of life that people from all countries and cultures bring to our shores, regardless of the means by which they arrive here. We represent an Australia which is compassionate. We welcome people in need with open arms.

To date, I’ve raised $470 with your assisstance, and ASRC has reached a total so far of $16,500. This is a fantastic achievement but there’s still a long way to go before reaching the collective target of $250,000 by October 12. If you wish to continue to help, please share the link to my donation page with your friends, family, co-workers and social networks: http://run4refugees14.gofundraise.com.au/page/gilfer

Thank you so much for your generous support.