The Wollongong CEO Sleepout is just three weeks away, and Aster Group CEO Daniel Munk is putting out the challenge for others to match or exceed his fundraising efforts – all in the name of supporting the good works of Vinnies.
Mr Munk has already raised more than twice his initial commitment of $5,000, is top of the Wollongong Sleepout fundraiser leader board and is currently one of the top 20 fundraisers across the country for the 2018 event.
His efforts so far this year will provide more than 400 meals, 102 beds and 38 individual support programs for those in need.
“I’m proud to have raised more than $70,000 to date through my participation in the initiative for the last four years, and am grateful to the ongoing support of colleagues, business associates, club patrons, friends and family who are the ones behind the donated funds,” Mr Munk said.
“Participation in the CEO Sleepout is far from tokenistic – I know that I’ve made a real difference in fostering awareness of the issue of homelessness within our local community and beyond, and putting a spotlight on the alarming and growing statistics.
“I put out the challenge to my fellow Wollongong CEO Sleepout participants to up the ante and ramp up their fundraising efforts in the lead up to the event, and encourage anyone considering taking part to register today – it’s a commitment that makes a tangible difference,” he said.
Vinnies Wollongong central council executive office Peter Quarmby says funds raised by the annual event are critical in ensuring that Vinnies can continue to provide support where needed.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“People doing it tough need our business community across the Macarthur, Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands to rise to the challenge over the next few weeks by signing up for the Wollongong event, committing to their fundraising target, or simply making a donation in support of the initiative.[/social_quote]
“With the latest census reporting almost 38,000 people in NSW are experiencing homelessness – a terrifying 37 percent increase on 2011 – we can’t pretend that the issue isn’t prevalent in our own local communities.
“While business and community leaders will endure a night in the cold to help highlight the issue, anyone can help make a difference by sponsoring a CEO or donating to the Wollongong event,” Mr Quarmby said.
