Financial planning profession rallies to the aid of disadvantaged young Australians

Sponsorship, cyclist registrations and donations take Wheel Classic fundraising over half way to $100,000 target

Michael Guggenheimer

Five months out from the start of the Future2 Wheel Classic cycling fundraiser from Melbourne to Adelaide (13-19 November), the momentum of support is building in the financial planning community.

AMP Financial Planning has confirmed it will again be Gold Partner to the event in support of Future2’s vision to help those most in need. Funds raised enable Future2 to make grants to community not-for-profits that give disadvantaged kids all over Australia a new start and hope for a better future.

AMP Financial Planning Managing Director Michael Guggenheimer said: “We’re happy to have been involved with the Future2 Wheel Classic over a number of years as it is a great initiative in helping Future2 help local charities. A number of our financial planners will be participating in this years’ ride and I encourage the financial planning community to get behind their colleagues.”

The Financial Planning Association (FPA) has picked up one of two Silver Partner opportunities, reflecting the commitment of FPA professional members to the wider community as well as to their clients’ best interests. Cyclists arrive in the SA capital to a reception on the eve of the FPA Professionals Congress (20-21 November).

FPA CEO Mark Rantall welcomed the opportunity for closer involvement with this year’s Wheel Classic. “As a Silver Partner to the event, we are applauding the efforts of our members to do something that makes a lasting difference to those most in need – either by riding with the Wheel Classic or supporting those who do”, he said.

FPA members who ride the Wheel Classic are eligible for a 10% discount on registration for the FPA Professionals Congress in Adelaide, 20-21 November, and a 25% discount if they reach higher fundraising targets.

Registration and fundraising

By mid-June, 23 cyclists had registered for the cycling challenge, all but two of them for the 7-day, 1050 km ride. Participants include the first overseas cyclist, who is Japanese, and two teams: InvestBlue and Bravien Financial. Registrations remain open until 31 August.

Each cyclist will raise funds of at least $500 (if riding 1-3 days) or $1,000 (4-7 days); many set more ambitious targets. Donations in support of the cyclists are gathering momentum and include a $10,000 donation in support of one cyclist.