Leaders in business, community and government recently slept without shelter on one of the longest nights of the year to help change the lives of Australians experiencing homelessness. Some of the print industry’s executives also took part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, showing their support for homelessness.
The Lamson Group CEO, Rodney Frost, who took part in his 13th CEO Sleepout this year raised $20,878 at the time of writing, surpassing his goal of $20,000. Frost, whose father, Arthur, was homeless as a young man, was humbled by the support he received.
“The support I’ve received is so humbling and I can’t thank you all enough. Whether it was a donation or a share to help create awareness, I’m truly grateful,” he said.
“One thing we can all do is say hello to the people you see sleeping rough, most people just want someone to talk to. If you want to do something for them buy them a soft piece of fruit and a coffee/tea and talk to them. Put them in touch with Vinnies. I heard last night one example where exactly that turned someone’s life around.”
HP Australia and New Zealand vice-president and managing director, Michael Boyle, who participated in his first CEO Sleepout this year, raised $5,344 at the time of writing, also surpassing his target of $5,000.
“We heard some amazing stories at the Sleepout from brave individuals who have been through so much. It’s so inspiring to see the great work that Vinnies Australia is doing to help make life better for so many,” he mentioned.
SOS Print + Media Group Australia general manager, Michael Schulz, also participated at his first Vinnies CEO Sleepout this year, raised $5,739 (surpassing his goal of $5,000) for the cause.
“This year, I spent my birthday under the stars. A big thank you to all those who have supported me; every dollar counts,” he said.
“This year, I thought I should give it a go, participate and contribute to the Vinnies CEO sleepout. The idea is that business people spend a night outside in winter, get an understanding and raise funds for the many thousands of homeless people supported by Vinnies.
“We heard from others, how they became homeless, many of them victims of domestic violence. It was a learning experience. It has increased my awareness and my gratitude. And we raised money. I made my budget, and Australia-wide we are almost there.”
IVE Group, which was also one of the event sponsors of the 2021 CEO Sleepout, had five of its staff at hand to support the event.
IVE Group’s data-driven communications account managers, Ashleigh Wilson (Boyling) and Jennifer Bell, account director Cassandra Beal, account manager Susan McMechan and customer service representative Rosie Palmer volunteered on the night.
“It was inspiring to see so many of our business leaders braving the weather tonight and was wonderful to see so many people partake in this event – both emerging and legacy leaders who I have been fortunate to work with. For those emerging, they are certainly creating a legacy for their communities by taking a moment to stop, listen and give back,” Bell said.
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