That's the message from coach Dean Laidley, who was first involved in Whitelion's 'Care for Kids' program 10 years ago but became an official ambassador on Friday.
Whitelion provides support to thousands of young people affected by drug addiction, poverty, neglect and abuse and announced its new partnership with North, specific to its sports role model initiative.
Speaking from Old Melbourne Gaol, where Whitelion will hold its 'Bail Out' fundraising event on May 29, co-founder and former Essendon and Carlton player Glenn Manton thanked Laidley and his players for their early efforts.
"It will make a huge difference to so many young people throughout the community and those people who unfortunately are finding themselves in disadvantaged positions and can do with some role-modelling influence from AFL players," he said.
"It's a positive thing. It's a win-win for both organisations."
Laidley added that North's contribution could range from simply talking with disadvantaged teenagers, taking them to a movie or helping them with their literacy skills.
The partnership complements North's plans to bolster its community connection through a life and learning centre – including classrooms and educational resources – at its Arden Street facilities.
Construction of the building will be completed by the end of the year.
"Our boys are very charitable and the work that they do, they understand how lucky they are to be involved in AFL football," Laidley said.
"It is a reality check for them to go back and actually see what happens in society and how the youth of today can become disconnected with society.
"I think there can be so much learnt from programs like this."
The 'Bail Out' event allows guests to spend an evening as inmates, with their own cell, phone and a fundraising target of $1000.
The event, in its fourth year, also includes a 'parole' cocktail party.
