9 Million Raised for Homeless at CEO Sleepout

This is the 5th year I've been involved with the Vinnie's CEO Sleepout.

You see, almost 10 years ago, I nearly became homeless. I was unemployed, broke, and getting evicted.

And if that wasn't enough, my power was cut off!

Homlessness became a real possibility.

I shared the story in a YouTube video.

I made myself a promise, that if I ever made it through that period of my life, that I'd find a way to give back to the homeless.

Fortunately, I did make it through.

I kept my promise and decided to participate in the Vinnie's CEO Sleepout.

Every dollar raised goes to Vinnies’ not-forprofit services, which include food, accommodation, education, counselling, employment and health programs.

Each year, before lights out, Vinnie's would organise speakers and panels for us to learn more about the issue of homelessness. I heard stories from people who have been homeless, and with the help of Vinnie's have turned their life around.

The more I learn, the more I am commited.

In just 5 years, the number of kids under 12 has increased from 12,000 to over 20,000 despite our fundraising efforts.

I find this situation just unacceptable.

There's no point complaining or pointing the finger. It's up to us to be the change we want to see in the world.

It's going to take leadership.

Well done to Lonnie Bossi from Crown perth, who raised the most in WA, just shy of $80,000!

The volunteers and support staff from Vinnie's looked after us and were amazing as always.

Thank you!!

We heard from a volunteer who runs the music program at Passages.

He helps the homeless develop their talent, work ethic, mental health and self esteem helping them create music.

The volunteer happens to be one of my favourite hip hop artists. What I found really cool, was that is artist name wasn't mentioned at all during the evening.

He was introduced as Aaron, not the Bitter Belief I know him as. I felt that was significant... There was no agenda or desire to drop names.

It was about service, humility and making a difference. I couldn't give you a better example of what leadership looks like.

Even though we were just out there for one night - you can't help but become more grateful for what you have. You can't help but have more empathy towards those sleeping rough.

A special thanks to all at St Vincent de Paul Society and all the work they do.

Homelessness is a complex issue that cannot be solved with simplistic, short term solutions.

It affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

With a little bit of understanding, we can make a real difference.

I'll be back again next year.

And I'll keep coming back until we kick homelessness to the curb.

Even though the sleepout is over, you can still make a donation

This article was originally posted here.