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“Putting in the time and effort means the difference we make is not only tangible but personal.”

Tatiana Vanden Houte, Pitcher Partners

An enthusiastic team from Pitcher Partners braved a rainy day to help out with garden maintenance at Haven House Boronia in Victoria, run by the Lighthouse Foundation.

New plants were provided by our friends at Plantmark Wholesale Nurseries, with the goal for the Workerbee to make the overgrown outdoor area safe and inviting once again. “It seemed like a big task at first, especially for someone who had never worked in a garden before, but once we got to work and made quick progress the day flew by. By the end of it we were all proud of the result,” says Tatiana Vanden Houte, Pitcher Partners Analyst ‑ Tax Advisory. “Working with such lovely people made the day fun and meaningful.” 

The Pitcher Partners team worked hard on clearing, pruning, putting down fresh soil and mulch, and planting. The result was a transformed garden area for the young residents to enjoy. “I think people can underestimate how important it is to have a beautiful, clean, safe space outdoors,” says Tatiana. “Everyone wants to come home to a place that sparks joy and having a well-maintained garden contributes to that feeling.”

Participants also had an opportunity to learn more about the Foundation’s The Haven Project – building homes for homeless youth and how programs are run in the homes. “On the day we heard from representatives of the Property Industry Foundation and the Lighthouse Foundation about other projects they have moving forward – information we can now share with others,” says Tatiana. “It also emphasises that there is always more than one way to help. Donating – whether it is your time, money, or resources – will make a tangible difference in someone’s life.”

Haven House Boronia is a transitional home which supports young people to develop essential life skills such as cooking for the home and helping with household chores. Charmaine White, Lighthouse Property & Asset Manager said the young residents couldn’t believe the transformation in the garden and are very excited to use the rosemary in their cooking and research some new recipe ideas. Job done!

Want to volunteer to help make a house a home for the Property Industry Foundation? CLICK HERE to enquire about Workerbees in your state or arrange your own.