Our tireless industry volunteers are at the heart of what we do at the Property Industry Foundation. Meet some of the amazing people pitching in their time and expertise to support homeless youth.
Paul Rosenberg Vella
National Manager ALD Expert Demo
National Donor, Haven House Committee NSW
What inspired you to start volunteering with the Foundation?
Through personal family experiences with homelessness as homelessness does not discriminate and can happen to any family and any person in your life regardless of social or economic background.
How long have you been involved with the Foundation?
Four years. ALD Expert Demo is a National Donor and have been appointed to the Haven House Committee NSW which has been a very rewarding way to contribute and support the Foundation.
Was there a particular moment or person who made you realise this was something you wanted to do?
I was invited to a Foundation Golf Day and heard one of the speakers at the event. Their words stuck with me. It made me realise that the construction industry and network are a significant way to contribute and create impact. Together, we have the financial and resource capabilities to make a difference.
”“The construction industry and network are a significant way to contribute and create impact. Together, we have the financial and resource capabilities to make a difference.”
Paul Rosenberg Vella
What impact do you think volunteering has had – on young people and on yourself?
I don’t necessarily think the impact is directly from just me but more from those as a group working together and getting involved to create change. We all contribute a piece or a brick at a time to make a difference.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions the public has about homelessness?
That just poor people are homeless, and they are homeless as they don’t work, are drug abusers, or don’t want to do more in their life. This is so incorrect and misguided. The key pathway out of homelessness is a strong foundation – a place to sleep, live and a community. Specialist wrap around services can then support a young person’s goals and help them get their life back on track.
What’s one moment from your time with the Foundation that has stayed with you?
A recent story from a guest speaker at the VIC Wrap Night. A participant who experienced homelessness and was supported by a program via the Salvation Army discussed coming through difficult circumstances to turn her life around full circle. She is now enrolled at university, completing a course in Social Services, while also securing a new home for herself.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering for the Foundation?
Just do it! Everyone from our industry can make a significant difference, as well as a sense of giving back to those who are less fortunate in our community. Attending events, making donations or wrapping essential toiletry items or a gift at a Wrap Night helps and supports the Foundation so much. It’s also an opportunity to make new friends and form new relationships.
What can everyday people do to make a difference to those experiencing homelessness?
Don’t ignore what we see! Even a small hello to someone who is sitting on the street affected by homelessness or who asks for help could make a huge difference to their day.
If you could change one thing about housing for young people in Australia, what would it be?
Making housing accessible and to cut the red tape involved when someone really needs some help, a roof over their head and a safe environment.
There are so many ways to get involved with volunteering at the Foundation. Join a committee, get hands on at a working bee or wrapping night, or sign up to a fundraising event!
