News
Rugby Southland has chosen two local charities as its official partners for the next two seasons, selecting the Loss and Grief Centre Southland and Inclusive Activity Murihiku (iAM) from 16 applications.
The partnerships will focus on both fundraising and promoting the work of each organisation across Southland, with Rugby Southland using its platform and Stags brand to advocate for the charities.
The Loss and Grief Centre Southland provides support for people dealing with all forms of loss and grief, including bereavement, separation, illness, isolation, and major life changes. The centre offers counselling, resources, and community outreach services.
Inclusive Activity Murihiku creates opportunities for people of all abilities to participate in meaningful activities, helping those who might otherwise face barriers to engage fully in their communities.
"We received 16 applications, and it was a genuinely heartwarming process that made us incredibly proud of the work being done across our region. The calibre of organisations was outstanding, which made the decision a challenging one," a Rugby Southland spokesperson said.
"Both the Loss and Grief Centre Southland and Inclusive Activity Murihiku deliver essential services that make a real difference in people's lives. This partnership is about more than just raising funds — it's about using our platform and Stags brand to actively promote, support and advocate for the important work these organisations do across Southland. We're excited about what we can achieve together over the next two seasons."
Caroline Loo, Founder and Director of the Loss and Grief Centre Southland, welcomed the partnership.
"We are absolutely thrilled to have been chosen as a charity partner by Rugby Southland. It is such an amazing opportunity to collaborate together to support our rugby community and their families. We look forward to an exciting partnership. Our antlers are up!"
Megan Leslie, Inclusion and Capability Manager at Inclusive Activity Murihiku, said the partnership represents a major step forward.
"This partnership with Rugby Southland is a significant milestone for Inclusive Activity Murihiku (iAM), helping us expand the visibility of our programmes across Murihiku. It supports our ability to create more opportunities for children, young people, and adults of all abilities to participate in a wide range of sport and recreation activities."
Kerryn Douglas, Founder and Chair of Inclusive Activity Murihiku, said she originally recognised a gap in what Southland offered people with disabilities and moved to address it.
"The partnership with Rugby Southland opens an exciting new chapter, creating a platform to leverage support and awareness, and to shine a brighter light on the amazing work taking place across this sector, all while championing equity and accessibility to sport for every Southlander."
Rugby Southland will work with both organisations to raise awareness, support initiatives, and create opportunities for engagement with fans, players, and the wider community.