LOWNDES NOMINATES MATES4MATES FOR GRANT

Craig Lowndes has teamed up with Mates4Mates – Photo: Supplied

Recently full-time Supercars retiree Craig Lowndes has teamed up with philanthropic foundation Mates4Mates, which helps to drive more support services for Australian Defence Force Members with physical and psychological injuries.

Newman’s Own Foundation, founded by American actor and former racing driver Paul Newman gives seven sporting personalities the opportunity to nominate an Australian charity to receive a $100,000 grant.

Lowndes nominated Mates4Mates, which provides life-changing support and rehabilitation services for current and ex-serving members of the Defence Force, who have physical or psychological injuries as a result of their service, and their families.

“Our veterans deserve support as they continue the journey of rebuilding their lives. Many have physical and psychological injuries as a result of their service within the Defence Force,” Lowndes said. “They have protected us, so we need to look after them and their families.”

The grant will be used to fund the Mates4Mates Social Connection Programs for veterans and their families and support the STAIR Program (Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation).

The STAIR Program is an innovative peer-led skills program aimed at assisting mates to develop skills in emotion regulation and interpersonal functioning for recovery, to improve day-to-day living.

The funding will enable four Mates to study a Diploma in Counselling and go on to facilitate the 12-week program for other Mates, covering a range of topics including emotional awareness, distress tolerance, changing relationship patterns, and compassion for self and others.

Mates4Mates Chief Executive Officer, Troy Watson appreciated the funding and the support of Lowndes.

“Funding like this is vital to ensure that we can reach out to more veterans in need,” Watson said.

“Mates4Mates was established to provide a support structure for those serving and ex-serving Defence members that need help. In providing opportunities for our Mates and family members to engage in our services through our Social Connection Programs and the STAIR Program, we can support their road to recovery and help minimise the struggles associated with transitioning.”

Long-time friend of Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation President and CEO Robert Forrester explained that Lowndes represented the values and mission of the Newman’s Own Foundation demonstrated through his commitment to giving back and empowering others.

“While Paul Newman was best known as a movie star, he was also a passionate and successful championship racing car driver,” said Mr Forrester.

“His other passion was philanthropy, and he believed everyone has the power to make a difference. We’re pleased to recognise Craig’s and other Australian sports stars’ commitment to giving back and influencing others to do the same.”

Mates4Mates currently has 3,724 registered Mates and family members across Australia and provides more than 26,000 face-to-face contacts annually.

For more of the latest motorsport news, pick up the current issue of Auto Action, both in stores and online now. Also make sure you follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates between issues.