Paying it forward for not-for-profits

A CHARITY ball which debuted last year is returning early next month with the aim of raising funds for two local non-profits.

Since debuting the Wellness Ball last year to help support the Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre, organiser Kelli Aggett said the team is expanding their focus to also provide for charity group Cops ‘n’ Kids.

With more than $14,000 raised during their debut, Ms Aggett said the event is her way of “paying it forward.”

“It all started by doing Dry July each year and in 2021 my brother Joshua jumped on and we raised $6000 between us,” she said.

“That money went to BRICC. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and then diagnosed in 2016 with ovarian cancer. So, I’ve been with BRICC since 2012.

“That’s where Cops ‘n’ Kids comes in too because there February camp helps families that have been affected by cancer, so my kids started going there at a young age.”

With a fundraising goal of $15,000, the second Wellness Ball will feature a light supper, auctions, and live entertainment by performer Shaun McKeegan.

The event is a family-run initiative between Ms Aggett and her husband as well as her brother Joshua and his partner.

Proceeds will be split between the two charities with all raffle profits going towards Cops ‘n’ Kids and the rest of the money flowing towards BRICC.

Ms Aggett said the community have rallied behind her cause.

“I think everyone saw how successful this was last year and it’s a good way to get their name out and about,” she said.

“We have Audi as our first major sponsor and we have yearly businesses donating auction items and prizes like footy jumpers, beauty items and accommodation packages.”

The Wellness Ball will take place at the Victoria Bowling Club on Saturday, 3 June. Tickets are $60 and can be booked at bit.ly/3LXFFIL.