The Jim Stynes Foundation
Founded in 2015 in honour of Melbourne Football Player Jim Stynes, the foundation is dedicated to creating resilient young people through programmes that focus on leadership, wellbeing and opportunity. Guided by its core pillars, including Murrup and Generation Jim, The Jim Stynes Foundation delivers initiatives that support positive health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities while continuing Jim’s legacy of impact, which began with the founding of the Reach Foundation in 1994. Funding for these community programmes is generated through key initiatives such as the Play It Forward Luncheon and Jim's Game to ensure ongoing support for programmes that drive unity, respect, trust and excellence across the community and contribute to projects.
Play It Forward Luncheon
The Play It Forward Luncheon, held to honour Jim Stynes’ legacy, recognises excellence in AFL club-driven community programmes that display meaningful social engagement, influence and impact through the Jim Stynes Club Community Award. Announced during the luncheon, the Community Award provides additional support to programmes run by AFL clubs which best achieve The Jim Stynes Foundation's objective to create a generation of happy, healthy, and resilient young people.
Jim's Game
Jim's Game, held at the MCG during the AFL season, acknowledges and celebrates Club Legend, Jim Stynes as well as broader Irish culture. The day includes Gaelic football, Irish dancing, food and drinks, and 'Jim's Jig' after each goal. Jim's Game ensures ongoing support for programmes that drive unity, respect, trust and excellence, and funds raised throughout the day contribute to community projects and programmes. Fundraising efforts from the day aid the Atyenhenge Atherre Aboriginal Corporation (AAAC) and, more specifically, the Ltyentye Apurte Oval, a vital community hub in the Northern Territory. The oval provides a safe sporting facility for the remote community in Santa Teresa, promoting wellbeing, safety, and school attendance through recreational activities.
Explore dedicated panels to learn more about the foundation’s programmes, impact and stories, or take action by visiting The Jim Stynes Foundation website. Whether you’re looking to get involved, support a programme or contribute directly, the foundation provides a clear way to help drive meaningful change and continue building stronger, more connected communities.
