At Buddy Up Australia, our true strength lies in community - our ability to come together and support one another. We understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by our service personnel, and we strive to provide them with opportunities that foster connection, purpose, wellness and personal growth.
Our national event and volunteer program has a tremendous impact on the lives of veterans and first responders. In less than 5 years, we've seen how our organisation has boosted mental well-being and rekindled a sense of purpose in countless lives. To describe the profound impact Buddy Up has made, we'd like to tell you the inspiring stories of 3 special members.
Rebuilding Life After Service
Rachael is a Navy Veteran who had become too afraid to leave her house, and as a single parent, this meant her children's lives were massively impacted. Her mental health struggles left her feeling anxious and helpless. One fateful day, Rachael came across a Buddy UP event being held locally. She took a deep breath and walked through the door.
Surrounded by like-minded individuals with similar backgrounds, Rachael felt an instant connection and an acceptance that she hadn't felt in a long time. The inclusive environment allowed her and her children to enjoy meaningful experiences together once again. Through the kindness and genuine warmth of Buddy Up members, Rachael found herself opening up and sharing her struggles. She finally got the support she so badly needed.
"Buddy Up is definitely having a positive effect on my mental health. Everyone is just so kind and welcoming. I am grateful to be a part of this group."
Living in a void
Shane served his country in the ADF, and he thrived on the camaraderie and sense of belonging he felt. When the time came for him to leave, he plunged himself into running several successful businesses, which kept him busy, but as the years passed, he realised something was missing from his life. He longed for the connection and mateship he experienced in the ADF. Returning to service wasn't an option, and Shane was at his lowest ebb when he discovered Buddy Up.
Our values resonate deeply with Shane. As he says, "The main aim is to just get people out, moving, socialising, helping in the community and meeting like-minded people in a very caring and safe environment." He's rediscovered the mateship and camaraderie that was missing in his world. Shane loves to volunteer with Buddy Up and describes the sense of achievement he gets as empowering.
'If you are looking to fill a void since serving our country, then I highly recommend connecting with Buddy Up Australia and finding your nearest chapter".
A feeling of belonging
Buddy Up Australia was established around the same time Eleanor, a former police officer, realised how much she struggled with transitioning away from the force. After a decade as a police officer, she immersed herself in entrepreneurship. It was exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. The fact she could go all in and fill her days with running her business kept her busy with little time to reflect. Eventually, though, feelings of loss engulfed Eleanor. Running your own business can be isolating, and she missed her former colleagues. Crucially, she struggled to understand her purpose beyond the police force.
Enter – Buddy Up Australia - a like-minded community of people whose similar experiences helped Eleanor reconnect with a period in her life that was incredibly rewarding and challenging. Volunteering with current and ex-service personnel at physical and wellness events is perfect for her because physical fitness is her go-to for self-care.
"Thank you, Buddy. Up! You guys rock :)"
Your Opportunity
The stories of Rachael, Shane, and Eleanor show that volunteering is way more than just helping at events – it's being able to give back to your community, and it feels fantastic. Through volunteering, our members have regained the strength to navigate life after service.
And now you can contribute to the well-being of our veterans and first responders, too, because this year, we've created our very first Buddy Up Challenge. By taking on the challenge, you can not only push your limits physically and mentally but also make an incredible difference to lives.
We'd love you to join us for the charity challenge so you can experience the power of giving back while creating a rock-solid support system for veterans and first responders.
Sign up today for the Buddy Up Challenge.
