Ms Pratt is the manager of HOME, a community-based initiative in Queanbeyan that supports people with mental illnesses, and Ms Percy heads up Westpac's Fyshwick branch.

Their association stretches back to the days when Ms Percy was the bank's branch manager in Queanbeyan.

"HOME's my charity," she said, opening her arms as if to take in the establishment and all those it helps.

"Back in June I got Anne to apply for the Westpac Foundation Community Grant and HOME was successful."

Ms Pratt described the Queanbeyan venture as "proudly community-owned" and she stressed that the organisation was committed to changing the lives of those who lived there.

"We help people to find themselves," she said.

She added many of the residents were working part-time and forging their own identities rather than letting their mental illness define them.

HOME strives to be a "loving place" that builds a sense of self-worth and offers a secure environment while fostering belonging.

The organisation, which recently celebrated its fifth birthday, receives no recurrent government funding.

"HOME is not getting any handouts from government and that's another reason why we like to be on board," Ms Percy said.

"We also support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter on the south coast."

Ms Percy will be among the bank's dedicated staff members who stride out in a chopper suit tomorrow in a bid to raise $20,000 for the search and rescue service.

As she and Ms Pratt start their shared walk from Old Parliament House, the focus will be on swelling the coffers for the larger cause.

Benny the King Charles Cavalier spaniel will stay behind at HOME, which is where he belongs.

"He knows when people are not feeling well and sits with them until they feel better," Ms Pratt said.

Just as the friendly dog and the residents benefit from each other's company, so the partnership between HOME and Westpac is a win-win situation.