Purple Hands Foundation Doubles Mental Health Program Reach

The Purple Hands Foundation, founded by the Fremantle Dockers, is set to double the reach of its in-school mental health initiative, the Goals aHead program, in 2026, following a crucial financial commitment and refocusing of funds from major partner AKG.

This increased investment directly addresses the urgent need for preventative mental health support in schools, enabling the organisation to service communities previously placed on a waiting list and strengthen its long-term wellbeing presence across Perth.

The eight-week program, delivered in partnership with mental health partner Youth Focus, focuses on early intervention, helping students build confidence, resilience, and practical mental health skills before challenges escalate.

Confirming the commitment, AKG managing director, Darren Hooper, said: “Expanding Goals aHead means more students will have access to early, proactive wellbeing support that can change the course of their lives… This work is an investment in young people today.”

Feedback from students and teachers indicates improvements in engagement, social connectedness, and overall wellbeing among participants.

Commenting on the initiative, Purple Hands program ,coordinator Amber Vandam, added: “By growing Goals aHead, the Foundation is able to walk alongside more teachers and provide students with meaningful, practical tools that genuinely make a difference.” 

The successful model leverages the Foundation’s unique position to embed mental health literacy with the strong community recognisable appeal of AFL and AFLW athletes.

The increased investment will not only bring the program to more schools but also focus on strengthening delivery quality and building a more consistent, long-term wellbeing presence.

This ensures the commercial funding is directed towards sustainable social infrastructure, cementing the Foundation’s honour as a leading provider of proactive youth mental health support.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.