In a sobering statistic, at least one woman falls victim to domestic violence every week in Australia at the hands of her partner or former partner. The tragic story of Zahra Abrahimzadeh, whose life was cut short by her estranged husband at the Adelaide Convention Centre in 2010, sparked the creation of the Zahra Foundation. This foundation, established by Zahra’s children, has since been tirelessly working to combat the cycle of family and domestic violence.
This Sunday, March 17, over 400 individuals will gather for the annual ‘Women on the Run’ event, demonstrating solidarity with women affected by domestic violence. The 4km round trip from Grange to Henley Beach serves not only as a fundraiser but also as a powerful statement against violence towards women.
For the ninth consecutive year, Credit Union SA stands as a crucial supporter of this event, contributing over $100,000 towards its organization. Todd Roberts, CEO of Credit Union SA, expresses pride in sponsoring the event once again, emphasizing the importance of raising funds to support women in South Australia in breaking free from abusive situations and avoiding homelessness and poverty.
Roberts affirms, “Through our ongoing partnership with Zahra Foundation and the experiences of our members, we recognize the impact that financial abuse can have on people experiencing domestic and family violence.”
That’s why we, at Credit Union SA, are committed to working with Zahra Foundation Australia to give more access to South Australian women to their life-changing programs.
Kelly-Ann Tansley, CEO of Zahra Foundation, echoes gratitude for Credit Union SA’s unwavering support, highlighting the pivotal role financial insecurity plays in trapping women in violent relationships.
The funds raised this year are earmarked for vital initiatives, including funding a Specialised Financial Counsellor for a year and providing over 400 counselling appointments to women and non-binary individuals recovering from abuse.
Arman Abrahimzadeh OAM, Founder of Zahra Foundation Australia, expresses gratitude for the continuous support received, emphasizing the importance of community backing in driving the foundation’s mission forward.
Credit Union SA’s commitment extends beyond financial aid, with staff actively participating in the foundation’s ‘Pathways to Empowerment’ program. Over the years, staff members have donated handbags filled with essential items to program graduates, volunteered in Christmas gift wrapping events, and financed the production of video assets to raise awareness about financial abuse.
The Women on the Run event, scheduled for Sunday, March 17, encourages participants to convene at Grange Jetty Reserve at 8 am for a 9 am start. Registration details are available through the Zahra Foundation’s website, offering opportunities for both physical participation and virtual support.
For more information:
