In any small-business, there will inevitably be a cross-over between community and customer, and for Illawarra based Leather Doctor franchisee, Ian Dewey, the correlation stretches beyond good business.

For several years now, Ian has been actively involved in raising money for the Pink Ribbon charity, by wearing pink Doc Martin boots to all of his leather cleaning jobs.

Inspired by the tragic passing of his wife, the franchisee is helping the Illawarra community come together in a show of solidarity and goodwill, in order to help find a cure and support those effected by breast cancer.

Its estimated that over 18,000 Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone, equating to approximately 49 each day.

Cancer Council’s Pink Ribbon charity is dedicated to beating women’s cancers through prevention and education initiatives, and raising awareness, all while working towards a future where breast and gynaecological cancers are manageable, treatable diseases.

For Ian, his pink Docs are more than just a conversation starter; they are an opportunity to raise awareness for the Pink Ribbon charity and demonstrate how even the smallest of gestures can help build a social movement.

In addition to his flamboyant footwear, Ian donates $50 from every lounge clean to the foundation, raising in excess of $1500 since starting his campaign.

It’s that level of community commitment that has for-long been the basis of the home service franchise’s operations, and as a result, The Leather Doctor has announced a combined network initiative to back Ian and his message.

“A culture of community and giving back is centric to The Leather Doctor organisation, and we take great pride in having a network who are generous with their money and time. In saying that, this year, we’ve decided to take inspiration from Ian and have organised to combine powers and collectively raise money for Pink Ribbon,” the company said.

“Fifteen Leather Doctors from the network have agreed to jump on board and contribute to the Pink Ribbon fundraising initiative and as a group, we’re hoping to donate a minimum of $3000 to the worthy charity.”

The Leather Doctor will be constantly updating its fundraising efforts on Facebook, encouraging everyone to get involved, either through donation, encouragement or by booking a service.

If you have a rip, tear, cut, crack, stain, cat scratch patch or ink mark on your leather, now is a great time to have it repaired, because not only will your home be ready for summer, you will also be supporting a great cause.

The Leather Doctor will be constantly updating its fundraising efforts on Facebook, encouraging everyone to get involved, either through donation, encouragement or by booking a service.

To learn more about joining the team of awesome franchisees, visit myleatherdoctor.com.au/become-a-franchisee/