Partnership keeps communities safe
Soaring temperatures, outdoor festivals and the return of cricket - summer in South Australia is a busy time for St John volunteers. And with the warmer weather on its way, Bendigo Bank is pleased to announce a new partnership with St John SA, affirming the Bank's commitment to the local community.
The announcement comes as St John launches its new 'Break the Barrier' campaign, which raises awareness about the devastating consequences of not knowing First Aid, a vital skill especially needed over the summer months.
Bendigo Bank State Manager SA/NT, Joe Formichella, said the new partnership would strengthen existing ties between the two organisations and enable St John to have greater impact on local communities through the Bank's Branch network.
"For many years Bendigo Bank has supported the valuable work of St John SA and their volunteers through the Defib Program, First Aid in Schools and the Bushfire Appeal earlier this year," Mr Formichella said.
"And now, by connecting our branches with local St John divisions, we hope the message around the importance of first aid will reach more people in more communities, and in turn more lives will be saved."
In its first year, the partnership will launch a major fundraising campaign, Volunteer for a Volunteer, which will encourage individuals, media personalities and Bendigo Bank staff to 'volunteer' to raise funds for St John volunteers.
All funds raised during the campaign will remain in local communities across South Australia, supporting St John volunteers to continue their vital work in their communities.
The partnership also signifies the South Australian launch of Bendigo Bank's Community Saver Account, allowing customers to allocate a portion of interest earned on their account to support St John SA initiatives.
St John SA CEO, Ray Creen, said that Bendigo Bank are so connected with local communities, that it made complete sense for them to partner with the Bank to further their work in keeping these communities safe.
"This time of year is when our volunteers and the services they provide are needed most," Mr Creen said.
"This partnership with Bendigo Bank will help ensure all of our volunteers are well trained and backed with modern, portable equipment."
