Dismantle’s mission is to support WA’s at-risk young people, but we acknowledge that in order to change young people’s lives it requires a robust ecosystem of services and support made up by a host of organisations and communities. One such organisation is On My Feet (OMF), an Australian not-for-profit founded by Keegan Crage in November 2014. Operating in Perth and Melbourne, On My Feet has developed a fantastic 6-month program that blends education, exercise, and employment to combat homelessness. On My Feet’s exercise ethos speaks to Dismantle’s cycling roots and Dismantle was excited to donate two bicycles to OMF participants, Ben and Sheldon.
In July, Dismantle met with Kath McQuaide, CEO of On My Feet, where we learnt of their approach to helping the homeless population in Australia. It is estimated that the average Australian is six weeks away from experiencing homelessness themselves and there are enough homeless individuals in Australia to fill the MCG multiple times over. On My Feet assists by welcoming them into a healthy exercising community where they regain their self-esteem, self-worth and sense of purpose. They gain access to a network of caring, friendly volunteers and like-minded people.
Ben and Sheldon came into Dismantle HQ, where they shared their stories and received their bikes. Sheldon, who has recently started training with OMF had been facing knee troubles that had halted his running training. Excited to try something different and keep him on track during his injury, Sheldon was looking forward to getting on his new bike.
Kath (CEO), expressed her gratitude, saying, "We are extremely grateful to Dismantle for the two bikes. Sheldon was beaming as he saw his bike, which he swiftly named Black Betty. Thanks for your kindness and patience in explaining aspects of the bike to Sheldon and generously providing him with a helmet, locks, lights, a bell, and spare tires. He is certainly well set up."
Another participant, Ben, has turned his life around with the help of exercise and OMF’s support. Over the last two and a half years, Ben’s commitment to training has been remarkable and now in 2023, he is training for the Sydney Marathon. You can follow his journey on his blog. We can’t wait to hear more about his training and his new cycling passion.
If you would like to be a part of the work that Dismantle and On My Feet do, there are plenty of ways to support. Whether you want to volunteer your time or contribute in other ways, visit the Dismantle and On My Feet websites to learn more.
Dismantle would like to thank On My Feet for letting us play a role in Ben and Sheldon’s story. Dismantle is always excited to work with the wider community to achieve the impact we want to see in WA and beyond, reach out to us if you have any ideas!