Why the Canberra Day Appeal is the best way to give where you live
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For many locals, the annual Canberra Day long weekend is a welcome break as the madness of March takes over the city.
But beneath the celebrations and festivities lies an annual event that has been transforming what it means to honour our capital’s birthday.
The Canberra Day Appeal has quietly become the region’s most impactful giving initiative, channelling community generosity directly back into local neighbourhoods. While people grab the chance to relax (and perhaps squeeze in one last escape to the coast), hundreds of local charities and grassroots organisations receive the support they need to continue their essential work throughout the year.
Running until Thursday 20 March, there’s no denying the Hands Across Canberra Day Appeal is one of the best ways for people to give where they live – and as it kicks off again for another year, they’re once again calling for Canberrans to give a little to help a lot.
A collaborative fundraising effort between Hands Across Canberra (HAC), participating charities, and the wider Canberra community, this year 97 local charities are taking part in the appeal.
And while no one is surprised to hear that Canberra is home to some of the most generous donors in Australia, according to HAC CEO Genevieve Jacobs, the magic of the Canberra Day Appeal is that every single dollar raised stays local.
“By keeping donations within the ACT, and giving where we live, we’re helping to address critical areas such as homelessness, mental health, education, and social inclusion across the Canberra region,” she says.
“This effort is about making a real and impactful change by supporting our friends, neighbours, colleagues, and our community by helping local charities extend their reach. Join us in creating a lasting difference for a better, more connected and more caring Canberra.”
Supporting charities and local organisations, including Canberra Refugee Support, Karinya House, Good Omen Goodeze Inc, and ACT Pet Crisis Support, even a small donation has a lasting impact – every dollar raised through the Canberra Day Appeal will be matched up to $2,500 per charity, doubling the power of your generosity.
But that’s not the only way to give. This year, in addition to direct donations, people can also contribute by registering for the Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run on Monday 10 March.
Held in partnership with Stromlo Running Festival, runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels are invited to lace up their shoes to embark on a run/walk around the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin while celebrating Canberra’s birthday.
Followed by a morning of family-friendly activities in Commonwealth Park – including a special edition of the Little Burley Markets – it will be a fun and fulfilling way to give where you live.
“We’re incredibly grateful to be the charity partner for the Canberra Day Appeal Fun Run and to work alongside Events ACT. This partnership helps to boost our mission to inspire Canberrans to ‘give where they live’ and make a real difference in our community,” says Genevieve.
“We want everyone to feel like they can be part of this initiative, whether they are running, walking, donating, or simply attending the post-Fun Run activities at Commonwealth Park. There’s a way for everyone to get involved.”
Looking for even more options to support local? You can also donate directly to the charity of your choice through the appeal website , you can donate to a runner or a team through the Fun Run registration page or you can attend the event and donate on the day!
“By contributing to Hands Across Canberra and its charity partners, individuals and businesses can help those facing tough times. With every dollar donated, Canberra’s local and diverse charity network grows, providing essential services to those in need.”
For more information, visit canberraday.org.au
