The Men of League Foundation grew from the realisation that the qualities of teamwork and mateship could be harnessed to serve those who needed help the most.

In 2002 Ron Coote, Jim Hall and Max Brown identified there was a pressing need to establish a network that accessed the tight-knit rugby league community's desire to help its own. And so the Men of League Foundation was established.

This Saturday the Men of League Foundation, Mid West Committee, is hosting the first of three fundraisers for the year at Bathurst Panthers, and everyone is welcome.

The event, the Kick-Off Club, is an informal get together, where people can come and have a drink, try their luck in the raffle and catch up with old friends or meet new ones.

Cost is just $30 and includes finger food and two drinks on the night.

Mid West Men of League President Royce George, said he hoped to see as many people as possible there.

"Everyone is welcome, we've got former Bathurst Railway, Panthers and Roosters player Paul Dunn as special guest.

"Paul's on the board of Bulldogs Rugby League Club; he played for Australia and was the recipient of the Clive Churchill medal, he's the local bloke who's done the lot," he said.

Mr Royce said James Brindley will also be there, another former Bathurstian , now CEO of Tooheys.

All money raised through the night goes to the Men of League Foundation, which provides assistance to men, women and children who have had some connection to the game and need support.

The foundation provides a range of support including financial support for surgery, rehabilitation, equipment and specialist care to well being visits to homes and hospitals to address social isolation and promote mental health.

Mr Royce asked people attending the night to RSVP to him on 0408 635 011, for catering purposes.