Ryman residents and team members across Australia have raised more than $130,000 for Dementia Australia, celebrating an outstanding year of fundraising and community spirit.
Over the past 12 months, residents and team members across Ryman’s Australian villages have thrown their support behind Dementia Australia, raising funds through bake sales, movie nights, raffles, quizzes, dress-up days and other activities.
Their efforts, together with Ryman’s contribution, brought the final fundraising total to $130,566.25.
The achievement was celebrated with residents, team members and representatives from Dementia Australia at a cheque presentation at Weary Dunlop Village in Melbourne.
Ryman Chief Executive Officer Naomi James said the result reflected the generosity and commitment of residents and team members across Ryman’s Australian villages.
“Our residents and teams get behind causes that matter to them year after year, and the support for Dementia Australia has been outstanding,” Naomi said.
“More than $130,000 is a fantastic result, and I’m incredibly proud of everyone who has contributed. It has been a privilege to partner with Dementia Australia and support the important work they do for families impacted by dementia.”
Dementia care is a key part of Ryman’s continuum of care, and the partnership has built on the specialist care and support already available in villages.
Throughout the partnership, Dementia Australia has visited Ryman villages to provide education sessions and resources, giving residents, families and team members greater access to its expertise and support.
Dr Kaele Stokes, Executive Director Services, Engagement & Research at Dementia Australia (left), chats with Weary Dunlop Resident Experience Coordinator Jenny Kemp, Village Manager Meagan Spicer and Sales Advisor Lina Benedetti during the cheque presentation event.
Dementia Australia Executive Director Services, Engagement & Research Dr Kaele Stokes said the generous donation will support Dementia Australia in continuing to provide trusted information, education and support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers.
“We were delighted to enjoy a close collaboration with Ryman Healthcare as their Charity of Choice throughout the past year, and we have also been touched by the generosity of residents across Ryman’s villages in raising funds.
“My conversations with residents also indicate that the partnership has helped build new connections between residents. Dementia Advocates and Dementia Australia staff shared their experiences and knowledge at fundraising events, high teas and lunch and learn sessions, which built knowledge about dementia. We want to extend our sincere thanks to Ryman Healthcare staff, residents and families for their very warm welcome, generosity and commitment to supporting people impacted by dementia.”
Weary Dunlop resident Shirley Williams also played a special part in the fundraising effort, generously donating artwork created by her late husband, David Williams, to be auctioned in support of Dementia Australia.
“David was incredibly talented and created thousands of paintings over many years. Donating some of his artwork to support Dementia Australia felt like a wonderful way to share his legacy while helping an important cause,” Shirley said.
“Seeing residents support the fundraiser and purchase David's artwork was very special. It's a lovely way to keep his memory alive and give something back to the community.”
Dementia Australia is the national peak body supporting people living with dementia, their families and carers, providing information, education and support services alongside advocacy and support for dementia research.
Ryman’s charity partnership programme has been running since 1999, with residents and team members helping select a charity partner each year before fundraising for the chosen organisation.
More than $6.5 million has been raised for charities across Australia and New Zealand through the programme.