Located in regional NSW just outside of Wagga Waggga, the Tumut program of BBBS provides friendship-based mentoring for vulnerable young people aged 7-17. Regional communities like Tumut face unique challenges when it comes to accessing funding networks, making Pitch Up a vital opportunity for organisations like BBBS to reach new audiences and supporters. “I thought I might be the outsider as the only non-Wagga organisation,” Emma Peacock, Mentoring Coordinator with BBBS told us, “but I was absolutely blown away when we raised the most money out of all three.” The $21,000 raised at the event allowed her to create six new mentor-mentee matches, expanding the program’s impact in the community. “That’s six kids whose lives are now hopefully changed for the better,” Emma remarked, noting how essential it is for young people to have mentors who consistently show up, no matter what.
Crucially, the Pitch Up event introduced Emma to a broader local network of support, with people reaching out to ask how they could continue supporting the program. Emma recalled one woman who couldn’t attend but later called to offer a $1,000 personal donation after learning about Big Brothers Big Sisters. “She has continued to donate and invested herself into our story,” Emma shared, illustrating the ripple effect of community support that extends well beyond a single event. This type of sustained, relationship-focused engagement resonates deeply with Emma, who values long-term commitments in both mentorship and community support. “That’s what I value: long-term relationships,” she said, drawing a parallel between her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the lasting connections fostered by TFN.
Emma’s experience highlights the importance of visibility and storytelling for regional non-profits. “Having an event like Pitch Up gives you a platform to reach a wider audience outside your usual channels,” she explained. This exposure not only amplifies the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters but also attracts new supporters and advocates who are moved by the program’s mission.
As Emma continues her work, she reflects on the unique resilience of regional communities like Tumut, where challenges such as the cost of living, bushfires, and COVID-19 have tested the local spirit. Despite these hardships, Emma is constantly inspired by her community’s generosity and support. “People still give what they can,” she said, underscoring the power of local engagement and the commitment to supporting one another.
Through Pitch Up, Big Brothers Big Sisters has gained not only essential financial support but also the community connections that ensure long-lasting impact.