Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) Director of Human Resources, Rochelle Choyna took part in the annual St Vincent de Paul CEO Sleepout last month at Etihad Stadium, to raise funds and awareness for the homeless.
“I was overwhelmed to experience what homeless Australians confront every night and I encourage everyone to help those who face a night on the streets by supporting the Vinnie’s CEO Sleepout,” Choyna said.
To date almost $3000 has been raised in support of her participation which will go directly to the ongoing provision of the St Vincent de Paul Society homeless service across Australia.
MCEC’s support of the CEO Sleepout is part of their broader commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), aimed at supporting Melbourne’s community, industry and environment.
“CSR is embedded in MCEC’s culture and we encourage our employees to become involved in activities that benefit community education and understanding,” said MCEC Chief Executive, Peter King.
Now in its third year, the fundraiser asks CEO’s and business and community leaders to experience homelessness for one night by sleeping outdoors.
More than 100,000 Australians sleep rough each night of the year, with just under half of these being women and a quarter of these under the age of 18.
Donations can be made to Rochelle’s sleep out until 31 August 2013 at ceosleepout.org.au/ceos/vic-ceos/rochelle-choyna
