Sammy D Foundation

Why the Sammy D Foundation?

In 2008, Adelaide teenager Sam Davis went out with his friends to a party on a Saturday night, just like hundreds of other teens around Australia. The difference was that Sam was to fall victim of a violent and unprovoked assault that left him on life support with a fatal head injury.

The 17-year old enjoyed time with family and friends, and had proved to be extremely talented at any sport he played. His funny,loyal and unique personality made him many friends; which was evident by the 1700 people that attended Sam’s funeral.

After Sam’s tragedy in 2008, his parents Nat and Neil founded the Sammy D Foundation, with the ultimate aim of providing skills to
young people in order to prevent such a tragedy from happening in our community again.

Sam’s death is part of an alarming trend in our society around alcohol fuelled violence. A recent study by the Australian National Council on Drugs has reported
that:

  • One in eight deaths of Australians aged under 25 is now related to alcohol consumption.
  • 60% of all police call outs are alcohol related (including 90% of late night calls)
  • One in five hospitalisations of people under 25 are due to alcohol
  • 20% of Australians drink at levels putting them at risk of lifetime harm

The Sammy D Foundation believes that every young person deserves to be loved, supported and protected. Many need guidance and positive role modelling to equip them with the skills and confidence needed to not only avoid dangerous situations, but to also live healthier, safer and successful lives.

Five years on, and the Sammy D Foundation has spread Sam’s message across hundreds of schools, community
groups, and sporting clubs, raising awareness and educating more than 20,000 young people about the consequences of aggressive and violent behaviour.

The Foundation also ensures this ongoing support is delivered through its mentoring and engagement programs.
Targeted programs ensure that young people who need the most support will access it via the Foundation.

The principle aims of the Sammy D Foundation are to:

  • Promote healthy lifestyles
  • Provide opportunities for success
  • Nurture mateship
  • Bring families closer together