On one of the coldest nights of the year, CASPA leaders joined forces with other corporate advocates to highlight a pressing issue: homelessness. CEO Naarah Rodwell, NT Director Nathan Baunach, and Director of Strategic Impacts and Futures Oksana Tkachenko, participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, raising critical awareness and funds for St Vinnies' efforts to support those without a home.
Held on the shortest day of the year, the CEO Sleepout invites leaders to spend a night sleeping rough, offering a glimpse into the struggles faced by thousands of Australians. With only a sleeping bag, a piece of cardboard, and a simple soup for dinner, Naarah and Oksana experienced the chilly night in Brisbane, raising an impressive $8,380. Meanwhile, Nathan joined the Darwin event, raising over $1,500, bringing CASPA’s combined contribution to nearly $10,000.
The experience was designed to build understanding and start meaningful conversations. Leaders didn’t just endure a cold night. They participated in a cost-of-living exercise, managing an imaginary $120 weekly budget to cover essential expenses like food, hygiene, and transport. This exercise highlighted the harsh financial struggles of homelessness, offering an eye-opening glimpse into daily life.
In addition to the physical and financial challenges, attendees heard from keynote speakers sharing their lived experiences of homelessness. The stories were powerful reminders of the systemic barriers people face and the urgent need for collective action. One particularly sobering statistic resonated with us: within their first year of leaving out-of-home care, 30% of young people experience homelessness.
At CASPA, this statistic is a call to action. We are dedicated to breaking this cycle by equipping young people with the skills, training, and support they need to transition successfully into adulthood. Events like the CEO Sleepout not only amplify the importance of this work but also deepen our commitment to advocating for systemic change.
Events like The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is a reminder that homelessness is a shared challenge that requires a shared solution. CASPA is proud to work alongside organisations like St Vinnies to build awareness, encourage community support, and work towards a future where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.