A night in the life of a homeless person.
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout, now in its 11th year, will see over 1,500 CEO’s from around Australia sleep out in the cold on Thursday evening. Every dollar raised helps provide assistance to people experiencing homelessness.
Some CEO’s who are involved in this year’s event include, Harvey Norman Launceston Furniture, franchisee Justin Wright, Aldi group managing director, Stefan Kopp, Dyson managing director, Glenn Andrew, Harris Scarfe Tasmania store manager, Trudy Mauldon and Lenovo managing director, Matt Codrington.
Commenting on her participation, Mauldon told Appliance Retailer: “This will be my fourth year taking part in the sleepout. In 2013, we donated a cutlery set for part of the silent auction and at the time, I was looking for a charity event to participate in. I signed up three days before the event and raised approximately $750.
“It really opened my eyes as to how lucky I am and hearing the stories from those who had been homeless, also opened my mind as to how easy it can happen to anyone. I continue to participate because I want to help make a difference, raise awareness and be able to help those who need it.”
Commenting on his involvement, Codrington (pictured below) told Appliance Retailer: “Knowing that the homeless population in Australia is over 100,000 people on any given day, it’s important for me to continue to help bring awareness and raise funding for this important cause for the fourth year in a row.
“I have been incredibly impressed by the efforts of the Vinnies team and so touched by my interactions with the real people that receive the support. I am proud to say that the team at Lenovo and I have already raised more than we have in previous years and I am looking forward to another successful event.”