Property Industry Foundation working bees to support homeless youth continue to buzz around the country, with a hive of activity in NSW and VIC in the past few months. Thanks to all our industry supporters who chipped in their time and skills to help young people in need.
Teamwork makes the dream work in NSW
With signature enthusiasm, the NSW Design & Build Recruitment Team united for a special Working Bee at Oasis Youth Service for The Salvation Army, transforming multiple spaces. “The day was such a fantastic chance to come together as a team here at Design & Build, but most importantly to support such a wonderful cause that makes real a difference in the fight against youth homelessness,” said Design & Build NSW State Manager, Kelly Harrison. “We were honoured to be given the opportunity to participate and to see the results at the end of the day. A heartfelt thank you from all the team here!”
Charter Hall took on an epic two-day Working Bee at Oasis Youth Service, led by our NSW Board of Advisors Chair, Natalie Devlin. The team got to work painting, cleaning, and rebuilding furniture to create a rec space, gym, lounge, drop-in room and reception – spaces where young people can focus on their wellbeing and feel at home. “If we were to do what the Foundation and the Charter Hall Team have done, it would’ve taken us three years to fundraise and six months to complete,” said Elaine Yallop, Regional Manager Oasis Youth Service. “We cannot thank you enough and by taking time out of your life to do what you have done; it makes the young people feel like someone cares about them.”
BESIX Watpac helped to transform Haven House Kingsford for St Laurence House Youth Services. As part of National Volunteer Week, they filled skip bins, painted walls, built BBQs, and engaged in meaningful conversations around the complexities of youth homelessness in Australia. “What a great experience coming together with the Foundation team to give back and help create a home for young people in need,” said Senior People Advisor Chelsea Warren. “Many hands certainly make light work and we’re proud to contribute to such a worthy cause.”
A winning gym!
Our valued partners Revert Group and MGM Management gave generously to create a gym for Oasis Youth Service where young people experiencing homelessness can focus on their health and wellbeing and boost self-esteem. Former champion boxer and MGM CEO Anthony Mundine, his business partner Gosh Daher, and Paul Rosenberg from Revert were on site to meet the Oasis team and visit the gym. “Building mental and physical strength is so important to our young people, and now thanks to the Property Industry Foundation, Anthony, and Revert, they have a fit-for-purpose space. Anthony’s personal involvement shows them that he genuinely cares about their wellbeing,” said Will Matka from Oasis Youth Service.
Victoria makes a difference
Colliers sent a hardworking team of volunteers to a Working Bee day at Haven House South-East Melbourne, managed by the Lighthouse Foundation for the Young Women’s Freedom project, offering a safe house and support to women escaping forced or early marriage.
The enthusiastic team pitched in with a mix of gardening and general maintenance around the house, recently renovated by TEN Women, the Property Industry Foundation and Hansen Yuncken. “Our Colliers experts found the experience extremely rewarding and an enjoyable day,” said Colliers. “A special thank you to Property Industry Foundation for the opportunity to get involved and giveback.”
The team from Dulux also volunteered their time at Haven House South-East Melbourne, providing panting services and sprucing up an exterior fence. Their work garnered rave reviews from the Lighthouse Foundation staff, who were impressed by their speed and attention to detail.
Want to volunteer in the homeless community or help make a house a home for the Property Industry Foundation? CLICK HERE to enquire about working bees in your state or arrange your own.
