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Team Bedford at the 2024 Vinnies CEO Sleepout
Helping end the cycle of homelessness
On 20 June, the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout will be held across Australia to raise support and awareness for people experiencing homelessness, or those at risk of homelessness.
This year, our own Chief Executive Officer, Steve Dixon, and Chief Delivery Officer, Peter Denison, are taking part as the Bedford Team, and joining over 1500 other CEOs, Business and Community Leaders.
In the Q&A below, Steve and Peter talk about both personal and professional reasons for taking part, and what they’re hoping to achieve.
Q: What’s the goal?
S: Being part of the Sleepout is a great way to draw attention to the needs of others and to stand with those less fortunate. In financial terms, we are seeking to raise $10,000 this year.
P: The goal is to raise money to help, as well as awareness in our community, because we can all work together to make a difference.
Q: Why are you doing this personally?
S: I believe leaders have a responsibility to stand with the vulnerable and to model to others how they can make a difference in the world. It’s one small way I can do this through my role.
P: I believe it is a great cause to help those in need who have met some sort of misfortune (and I am from South Australia so supporting community is only natural!). It’s really an Aussie thing to do – we support our mates no matter who they are or where they find themselves.
Q: What does it mean to do it as part of Bedford?
S: There’s a real connection between taking part in the Sleepout and with the way Bedford values people, whoever they are. And it links to the importance we place on being an empowering organisation – helping people become who they want to be and own the story of their life. In this case, helping people break the cycle of homelessness.
I also see this as an expression of Christian compassion, aligning right back to Bedford’s origins, which met the great social needs after the devastation of World War II.
P: It’s a chance to live out serving people – putting vision into action – and working towards causes for good in the wider community. At Bedford, we believe in a holistic approach that develops students of character and grit – we encourage students to have a big vision for the world they want to see. So doing the Sleepout aligns closely with our vision, values and purpose.
Q: What are you looking forward to?
S: Connecting with others who are wanting to make a difference in the community and hearing more about the work that’s being done.
P: Seeing fellow business partners out there for the same cause. (Also seeing Steve roughing it alongside me!)
Q: What are you not looking forward to?
S: I hate the cold – I really do.
P: I hope it doesn’t rain, but hey, if it does that’s ok too.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
S: Please consider jumping on the Bedford team donation page and support such an amazing cause!
