Michaela Meade
AFLW rising star Isabel Huntington was announced as the newest ambassador for Hope Street youth and family services on International Women’s Day, yesterday.
Best known as an Australian rules footballer who currently plays for the Western Bulldogs, Isabel said she was looking forward to fulfilling her ambassador duties.
Hope Street provides a range of services to support homeless youth in the community, including the northern region.
“There are so many social causes that my role as an AFLW footballer enables me to support, including the meaningful work of Hope Street… who provide holistic services to vulnerable young people experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, homelessness,” Isabel said.
“The league has had an amazing impact for society in general, and for the advancement of
social causes [so] being involved in the AFLW has been an incredible experience.”
Hope Street chief executive Donna Bennet said the organisation was thrilled to welcome the young athlete.
“Izzy represents what we as an organisation and community aim to achieve for all young people – being provided with the opportunity, resources and support to complete their education, work towards a career of their choice, be involved in sport and other activities that will connect them to their local community as they strive to achieve their life goals,” Ms Bennett said.
“I have no doubt young women will be inspired by Izzy as they will see a young woman who is going for what she wants in life and achieving this.
“It has taken decades for the AFL to open its doors to women as professional players therefore Izzy also represents the importance of never letting go of a dream, persistence, and what can be achieved when the community joins together.”
Hope Street’s work is taking them to Whittlesea to assist the community.
“Ending youth homelessness takes a community effort and Hope Street is proud to be in partnership with the City of Whittlesea with our shovel ready proposal for a new supported crisis accommodation centre.
“We are looking to the state government to fund [the centre] so that each year we can assist… young people including children find their pathway out of long-term homelessness and disadvantage.”
Details: www.hopest.org/.
