As Australia grapples with the harrowing reality of domestic violence, mortgage industry leader Jean-Pierre Gortan is making significant strides toward raising $100,000 for the Women’s Resilience Centre (WRC), a charity dedicated to supporting at-risk women.
From Aug. 16-19, Gortan, managing director of Simplicity Loans & Advisory, and his friend Arpit Srivastava will be running in the Larapinta stage race through 127 kilometers of the iconic Australian outback.
With numerous businesses and leaders in the mortgage industry already committing $75,450 to the cause, Gortan calls on the industry to help reach the $100,000 target.
With the domestic violence crisis reaching alarming levels, the WRC’s work has never been more crucial.
According to recent statistics, one woman is killed every 11 days in Australia due to domestic violence, a stark indicator of the pervasive nature of this issue.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has labelled it a “national crisis” and emphasised that it is a “problem of our entire society.”
The WRC reports that, on average, a woman subjected to abuse returns to her abuser seven to 11 times before she either escapes permanently or loses her life.
This cycle is often perpetuated by a lack of support networks, financial resources, employment, and clear pathways to safety.
Gortan said he recently had a profoundly moving experience at the Women’s Resilience Centre, where he met Lisa McAdams.
McAdams’ story of overcoming domestic violence and finding sanctuary is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of women who have faced unimaginable adversity.
“Hearing Lisa's experiences firsthand solidified my belief that I had found the right charity to support,” Gortan said. “Once those women don’t feel completely isolated, it’s the first stage of perpetrators losing power.”
McAdams’ journey through trauma and her subsequent recovery underscore the critical role that the WRC plays in providing a safe haven and the necessary tools for women to rebuild their lives.
Her story, which has been captured in the podcast She’s the Boss by Jules Brooke, highlights the tangible impact of the types of support offered by the WRC.
With just over a week until he laces up his shoes, Gortan remains committed to reaching the $100,000 goal and is calling on the community for continued support.
Gortan thanked corporate sponsors such as Zagga Group Australia, Secured Finance, and Simplicity Loans and Advisory for their contributions.
A full list of gold, silver, and bronze corporate sponsors who have committed to fundraising is listed below.
Gortan acknowledges the challenging times for many businesses and emphasised that any form of support, whether a donation or a simple act of spreading awareness, is deeply appreciated.
“By sharing this post, you are helping raise awareness and making a difference. Thank you for standing with us and supporting this important cause.”
