2024 PIYP Charity Gala

Please join us for the second 'Power in You Project Charity Gala' to raise funds for those battling addiction, mental health issues and incarceration in Geelong and South-West Victoria. After our inaugural gala in 2023 and raising over $13,000 for PIYP, we are excited to welcome former AFL footballer and recovered gambling addict David Schwartz to speak about his experience and recovery. This year, we are lucky to have corporate sponsors on board to lift the event, including our Gold Partner 'Empowered Liveability' who support people with disabilities into housing. 

THE DETAILS:

Hosted at Provenance Wines, we are turning the event up a notch this year with musical duo 'G&T' returning, in addition to 'Max on Sax' who will provide DJ and live saxophone to get people moving on the dance floor!

We will again have a silent auction, raffle and a live auction by Damian Mahoney.

Arrive: 6pm (concludes 11pm)

Ticket includes: 2 courses and roaming desserts, 5 hrs drinks package (6pm-11pm, beer, wine, cider, non-alcoholic beverages)

Dress code: Formal

ABOUT POWER IN YOU PROJECT:

In just 7 years, founder and former drug addict Kane Nuttall has grown the organisation from just one staff member - himself - and one client battling addiction to over 35 staff across two locations and over 100 clients. 

The Power in You Project is an organisation like no other, with a focus on peer support and leaving judgement at the door. PIYP believe that everyone deserves a second chance, despite working with clients who have complex histories. Not only does this support lift that person out of their darkest moments, but it also makes our region safer.

Kane and the PIYP team's work has resulted in philanthropic support over the years. However, the demand for addiction, mental health and reintegration support continues to outweigh the resources PIYP has to offer those who need them.

The Charity Gala is a fundraiser with 100% of the proceeds going towards free programs run by PIYP.

ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER:

David Schwarz is a former AFL player and Melbourne Football Club Life Member, multi media personality (TV, radio and podcast), public speaker, MC and presenter, partner of Assembled Media and partner of My Hab trauma, a rehabilitation and addiction treatment centre in Melbourne.

David was at the top of his game when a pre-season injury sidelined him for over two years. Following three knee reconstructions, his brilliance in the forward line saw him win the club's 1999 Best and Fairest, and play a key role getting Melbourne to the 2000 Grand Final. David retired from AFL football in 2001, after an 11-year career and 173 games.

During his football career, David had a gambling addiction. Soon after finishing football he was forced to turn this around.

In 2007, the ALH Group (Australian Hospitality & Leisure) appointed David as their Responsible Gaming Ambassador to provide employee education and customer awareness about the importance of “being honest with yourself about your gambling.”

In 2010, David launched his autobiography All Bets Are Off, an honest and courageous account of his life and his gambling addiction.

In 2012 The David Schwarz Program won the International Gaming Award for Best Responsible Gambling Program at an award ceremony in London.

David is a mentor and currently presents education on problem gambling, addiction and wellbeing for corporate organisations, schools, the sporting industry and through local government projects.

We will also hear from PIYP founder & CEO Kane Nuttall during the night. 

We look forward to having you join us for a fun, purposeful night!

We are always looking for raffle and auction items to raise more money for this incredible charity. If you know of any local businesses or are in a position to make a donation, please contact Olivia below.

For any ticketing enquiries, please text event organiser Olivia Nicholls on 0459 419 755.