Eighteen property and construction leaders from across Queensland hiked through the Scenic Rim Mountain range over the weekend to raise much-needed funds and awareness for homeless youth.
The 2024 Hike for Homeless Youth, organised by The Property Industry Foundation, ran from April 19-20 and pushed industry leaders to their physical limits, with funds going towards nearly 10,000 young Queenslanders do not have safe places to lay their heads.
This year’s hike raised more than $122,000, directly enhancing vital projects such as Haven House Kingaroy and the Logan Hub, which are crucial in providing not just housing but genuine support that contributes to the well-being and future of vulnerable youth.
Todd Pepper, Founder and Executive Director of Alceon Queensland, raised over $42K, after setting an initial fundraising goal of $5000.
“I increased my initial target from $5,000 to $25,000 and even that was eclipsed,” Mr Pepper said.
“I’m genuinely overwhelmed by the support from my friends and clients, and I look forward to sharing with them where these funds have been deployed and the lives they have changed.”
A member of the Property Industry Foundation Advisory Board in Queensland for the past 12 months, Mr Pepper said events like Hike for Homeless youth provide the platform to amplify the need for support to tackle critical issues and implement initiatives to address youth homelessness.
“The Foundation’s initiatives lead to long-lasting improvements, ensuring that young individuals have access to stable housing and can rebuild their lives,” Mr Pepper said.
Fellow Queensland Board of Advisors member Annabelle Aland, Partner in the Real Estate & Development group at international law firm Allens, was a keen participant in this year’s Hike For Homeless.
“It was such a great experience. Every hill we climbed symbolised the uphill battle faced by these young individuals, striving for stability and a place to call home,” Ms Aland said.
“Seeing industry leaders come together, pushing their limits for such a profound cause, is incredibly moving. We hike for a day, but the funds and awareness we raise support relieving some of the immense pressure these young people carry every day.”
Sal Guardala, Chair of the Property Industry Foundation QLD, who also completed the hike said projects like Haven House Kingaroy and the Logan Hub create opportunities for education, employment, and personal development, paving a path toward independence and resilience.
“Every dollar raised brings us closer to our target of building 300 bedrooms by 2025. The hike is challenging, but nothing compared to the challenges facing young Queenslanders and Australians facing homelessness,” Mr Guardala said.