Sydney Man Doing Push-ups to Raise Money for DSG Youth Charity

A local Sydney electrician has raised more than $30,000 AUD in 30 days by performing 30 push-ups on demand for people in return for a donation.

David Jones, was inspired by the 22 push-up movement that raises awareness of PTSD and suicide in the Australian military.

So far Jones has raised more than $31,000 to support StartOut Australia, a registered health promotion charity that aims to build the confidence and resilience of young people of diverse sexuality and gender (DSG) in regional Australia and reduce the entirely preventable burden of poor mental health in this community.

Jones is looking for help from the community to raise the remaining funds to ensure the essential infrastructure for this new youth mental health initiative is completed as scheduled.

“After the first few days, people started offering extra donations for me to do crazier things,” explained Jones.

“I’ve now got green hair, have worn a tutu and done push-ups on the Harbour Bridge.

“It’s all for a good cause and if you are willing to donate a good amount of money, there are no limits!”

Not only is Jones raising money for StartOut, he is also earmarked to be one of the first mentors trained by StartOut in January.

StartOut Director Adam Dent said the charity is developing an online mentoring program that will provide access to role models for young DSG people with a particular focus on those in regional Australia.

“In a month marked by plebiscites and the tragic suicide of 13-year-old Queenslander, Tyrone Unsworth, love continues to prevail over hate and a man whose hair is now green can show us how,” said Dent.

“Growing up ‘different’ is still a very isolating experience, especially in regional areas where support isn’t as readily available.

“So much progress has been made by LGBTI+ organisations and mainstream mental health organisations over the last decade but young people are still struggling.

“We know that quality role models can make a huge difference in reducing isolation so we’re putting them in the palm of young people’s hands.”

Expressions of interest for mentors and mentor training will commence in January.

You can still donate to David Jones’ campaign at here and find more information about StartOut Australia at startout.org.au.

Last Updated on Dec 1, 2016