Geelong Cats Charity Partnerships: How the Cats Are Making a Difference Beyond the Game
When you think of the Geelong Cats, you probably picture the navy blue and white hoops, the roar of the crowd at Kardinia Park, or the sheer dominance of a team that has brought multiple AFL Premierships to the region. But there’s another side to the Cats that doesn’t always make the highlight reel—and it’s just as important.
I’m talking about charity partnerships.
For years, the Geelong Cats have quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) built a reputation as one of the most community-minded clubs in the Australian Football League. From player-led initiatives to club-wide campaigns, the Cats have woven philanthropy into the very fabric of who they are. And honestly? It’s one of the reasons why this club feels so special.
In this guide, we’re going to explore the key charity partnerships that define the Geelong Cats’ off-field legacy. You’ll learn how these partnerships work, why they matter, and how you can get involved. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or new to the Geelong Cats community, this is the story of a club that gives back.
Let’s dive in.
Why Charity Partnerships Matter to the Geelong Cats
Before we get into the specific partnerships, let’s talk about the why. Why does a professional AFL club invest time, money, and energy into charity work?
For the Cats, it’s personal.
The Geelong region is tight-knit. It’s a place where everyone knows someone who’s been touched by illness, hardship, or disadvantage. The club has always seen itself as more than just a football team—it’s a pillar of the community. And that means using the platform of the AFL to drive real change.
Charity partnerships aren’t just about writing a cheque. They’re about using the club’s voice, its players, and its passionate fanbase to amplify causes that matter. When Patrick Dangerfield or Tom Hawkins shows up at a hospital visit, or when Joel Selwood (even in retirement) lends his name to a fundraising campaign, it sends a powerful message.
The Cats have a long history of supporting everything from youth mental health to cancer research, Indigenous programs, and disability inclusion. And these partnerships are carefully chosen to align with the club’s values: integrity, community, and respect.
So, let’s break down the major partnerships that define the Geelong Cats’ charitable footprint.
1. The Geelong Cats Foundation: The Heart of Community Giving
If there’s one entity that ties all the charity work together, it’s the Geelong Cats Foundation. This is the club’s official charitable arm, and it’s been running for decades.
What Does the Foundation Do?
The foundation focuses on three key pillars:
- Health and wellbeing – supporting programs that improve physical and mental health in the Geelong region.
- Education and inclusion – providing opportunities for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Community engagement – using the power of sport to bring people together.
How You Can Support
You can donate directly to the foundation, or you can get involved through fundraising events like the annual Cats Charity Golf Day or the Foundation Dinner. Every dollar goes back into the community.
> Pro tip: Keep an eye on the club’s social media channels for upcoming foundation events. They often sell out fast.
2. The Geelong Cats and the Royal Children’s Hospital: A Lifelong Bond
One of the most visible and emotional charity partnerships the Cats have is with the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne. This partnership has been running for years, and it’s a favourite among players and fans alike.
What Makes This Partnership Special?
The Cats regularly visit the hospital, spending time with young patients and their families. These visits aren’t just photo opportunities—they’re genuine moments of connection. Players like Patrick Dangerfield and Tom Hawkins have spoken openly about how humbling these visits are.
The club also participates in the AFL’s Children’s Hospital Round, where players wear special guernseys that are later auctioned off to raise funds. In recent years, the Cats have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the RCH.
The Impact
The money raised goes directly to life-saving equipment, research, and support services for children and their families. For many families, a visit from a Geelong Cats player is a bright spot during a difficult time.
3. Mental Health Initiatives: Beyond the Game
Mental health is a massive issue in Australia, and the Geelong Cats have been at the forefront of using sport to break the stigma. The club has partnered with organisations like Beyond Blue, Lifeline, and headspace to promote mental health awareness.
The “Talk It Out” Campaign
One of the standout initiatives is the “Talk It Out” campaign, which encourages fans to have open conversations about mental health. Players have recorded videos sharing their own struggles, and the club has hosted mental health awareness days at Kardinia Park.
Why This Matters
The AFL is a high-pressure environment. Players like Joel Selwood have spoken about the mental toll of professional sport. By being open about these challenges, the Cats are helping to normalise conversations around mental health.
> Quick tip: If you’re struggling, you can reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. The Cats have partnered with them to provide resources at every home game.
4. Indigenous Programs: Honouring Culture and History
The Geelong Cats have a deep respect for the Indigenous heritage of the region. The club’s Indigenous Programs are a key part of its charity and community work.
The Wathaurong Partnership
The Cats work closely with the Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative, which represents the traditional owners of the Geelong area. This partnership includes cultural education for players and staff, as well as support for Indigenous youth programs.
The Indigenous Guernsey
Every year, the Cats design a special Indigenous guernsey for the AFL’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round. These guernseys are works of art, featuring designs that tell the story of the Wathaurong people. They’re auctioned off to raise money for Indigenous causes.
Player Involvement
Players like Patrick Dangerfield have been vocal advocates for Indigenous recognition. The club also has a proud history of Indigenous players, including the legendary Polly Farmer, who was a trailblazer for Aboriginal athletes.
5. The Cats and Disability Inclusion: Everyone’s Welcome
The Geelong Cats are committed to making footy accessible for everyone. That includes partnerships with organisations like Disability Sports Australia and Special Olympics Australia.
The All-Abilities Program
The Cats run an All-Abilities Football Program for people with intellectual disabilities. It’s a modified version of the game that focuses on fun, inclusion, and participation. The program has been a huge success, with participants forming their own teams and competing in friendly matches.
Accessible Match Days
At Kardinia Park, the club has made significant strides in accessibility. There are dedicated viewing areas for wheelchair users, sensory rooms for fans with autism, and hearing loop systems for those with hearing impairments.
> Did you know? The Kardinia Park Redevelopment included a focus on accessibility, ensuring that the stadium upgrade made the venue welcoming for all fans.
6. Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives
Charity isn’t just about people—it’s also about the planet. The Geelong Cats have been leaders in environmental sustainability within the AFL.
The “Green Cats” Program
The club has partnered with Sustainability Victoria and GreenCollar to reduce its carbon footprint. Initiatives include:
- Installing solar panels at Kardinia Park
- Reducing single-use plastics at games
- Offsetting carbon emissions from team travel
Community Tree Planting
The Cats also organise community tree-planting days, where fans can come along and help green the Geelong region. It’s a hands-on way to give back to the environment.
7. Player-Led Charities: Stars Giving Back
Some of the most inspiring charity work comes directly from the players themselves. Several Geelong Cats stars have their own foundations or causes they champion.
The Patrick Dangerfield Foundation
Patrick Dangerfield runs his own foundation, which focuses on youth education and health. He regularly hosts fundraising events and donates a portion of his match payments to charity.
Tom Hawkins’ “Hawko’s Heroes”
Tom Hawkins has a program called “Hawko’s Heroes”, which supports children with serious illnesses. He invites them to training sessions, gives them signed memorabilia, and stays in touch with their families.
Joel Selwood’s Legacy
Even after retiring, Joel Selwood remains deeply involved in charity work. He’s a patron of Challenge (supporting children with cancer) and regularly participates in fundraising events.
How You Can Get Involved
So, you want to help? Here are some practical ways to support the Geelong Cats’ charity partnerships:
- Donate to the Geelong Cats Foundation directly through the club’s website.
- Attend charity events like the Cats Charity Golf Day or the Foundation Dinner.
- Bid on auction items, such as signed guernseys or game-worn boots.
- Volunteer at community events—the club often needs helpers for tree-planting days or hospital visits.
- Follow the club on social media to stay updated on new initiatives.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters for the AFL
The Geelong Cats aren’t alone in their charity work, but they’re certainly among the best. The AFL as a whole has a strong tradition of community engagement, and the Cats are a shining example of how a club can use its platform for good.
When you watch the Cats play at Kardinia Park, remember that the club is doing more than just chasing an AFL Premiership. It’s building a legacy of compassion, inclusion, and generosity.
And that’s something worth cheering for.
Final Thoughts: Be Part of the Story
The Geelong Cats are more than a football team. They’re a family. And like any good family, they look out for each other.
Whether it’s visiting kids in hospital, planting trees, or supporting mental health, the Cats are proving that footy can be a force for good. And you can be part of that story.
So next time you’re at GMHBA Stadium, take a moment to look around. Notice the banners, the community stalls, the smiles on people’s faces. That’s the power of charity partnerships in action.
Want to learn more about the club’s history and culture? Check out our getting started guide for new fans. And if you’re curious about how the game works, our AFL scoring glossary will have you covered.
Go Cats.
This article was written for Geelong Cats Insider, your go-to source for everything about the Geelong Cats. Follow us on social media for the latest news, match previews, and community stories.
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