Australian Franchise News – 25-09-14
Dave Eckford
Mr Rental – Ingleburn
Q. You are the Teams Coordinator for the Macarthur 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer, can you tell us about the event and what your key responsibilities in that role?
A. The Macarthur 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer is a community initiative. It is an annual fundraising event that exists to provide local hospitals with the extra services and equipment they need to assist in the treatment, care and comfort of children and adults dealing with cancer.
The event is created by the community, for the community with all the funds staying in the community. Sadly, many families in Macarthur are touched by cancer. The 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer is an annual outdoor, overnight fundraising event that seeks to provide the community with a place to come together and raise money. The event has many activities such as a children’s jumping castle, concerts, relays and games. The event is also a place of solemn reflection for those dealing with loss and grief. It is an important event in our community.
This will be my third year as Teams Coordinator. In my role I am responsible for 120 different teams of walkers totaling over 1,000 people. I take care of all the teams from the event logistics to coordinating the team uniforms.
Q. What has been the community response to this event?
A. The community response to the event is wonderful. The Macarthur community raised $280,000 at last year’s event to assist local cancer treatment facilities. Over 2,000 people attended the event last year and we are seeing consistent growth as the event becomes more popular. In the last three years the event has raised a staggering $1 million purely from community donations. The event has been running for 10 years and in that time has raised over $2.5 million.
Q. How is Mr Rental involved in this event?
A. Mr Rental Campbelltown is an official sponsor of the 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer. The whole Mr Rental team gets involved and participates in all the events. It is a great activity for team building and we raise a great deal of money.
Q. Since Mr Rental has become involved with the event have you seen any positive changes within your business?
A. I have seen an excellent improvement in staff morale in the lead up to the event. They are excited to participate and get involved in all of the activities. The whole community comes together for this special occasion and it’s great to see such positive reactions.
Q. What recommendations would you give to other franchisees wanting to become involved in charitable activities?
A. There are many benefits of participating in events such as these. Firstly, you are an active member of your community making positive changes to the lives of your peers. You can’t always tell who is suffering and the 24-Hour Fight Against Cancer is just as important for the family members of cancer patients as it is for those suffering the illness. Secondly, it is great for business as you get your name out into the community creating positive word-of-mouth. Thirdly, it raises the morale of your entire team as you are working together to achieve a common goal. Finally, it makes you feel great! Why wouldn’t you do it?
A franchise group servicing all areas of Australia and New Zealand, Mr Rental keeps life simple by offering a wide range of technology, furniture, white goods and fitness equipment for home, lifestyle or business.
To get in contact with David Eckford and his friendly team at Mr Rental Campbelltown call (02) 9605 3517 or visit 3/22 Lancaster Street, Ingleburn.
For more information about Mr Rental, visit http://www.mrrental.com.au or call 1800 880 778.