The Power of our VIPs
Lauren Stacy, Corporate Partnerships Manager
At St Bart’s we are very fortunate to have support from many schools across the Perth Metropolitan area. We recently had the privilege of visiting several schools around Perth to personally thank them for their remarkable dedication to the ‘Heart for the Homeless’ Winter Appeal in collaboration with Sonshine FM.
During these visits, we had the opportunity to engage with students and teachers, sharing the profound impact their support has had on individuals experiencing homelessness and discussing the current statistics surrounding this pressing issue.
One of the most striking aspects of these visits was the genuine concern and care exhibited by the students, teachers, and the entire school community. It was heartening to see how deeply they were invested in making a positive difference. The level of empathy and understanding displayed was truly inspiring. These young individuals are not only aware of the challenges faced by those less fortunate, but they are also eager to contribute to creating a better future for all.
We are witnessing a generation of students who are determined to give back to society. They are passionate about making a tangible impact and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their efforts lead to meaningful change. Their dedication to helping others is evident in their actions and words. Many students expressed a strong sense of responsibility, often saying, ‘We feel it is our responsibility to give back when we have the capacity.’ This sentiment highlights their commitment to social responsibility and their desire to use their resources and abilities to benefit others.
During our discussions, we emphasised the importance of their contributions and how their efforts are making a real difference in the lives of those affected by homelessness. We shared stories of individuals who have benefited from the support provided through the ‘Heart for the Homeless’ initiative, illustrating the tangible outcomes of their compassion and generosity.
Furthermore, these visits allowed us to highlight the importance of ongoing support and advocacy. We encourage students to continue their efforts and to inspire others to join in this vital cause. The enthusiasm and dedication we witnessed is inspiring, and it gives us hope for a brighter future.
On a personal note; every time I leave a school, I am filled with optimism. The students we meet are not only the future, but they are also shaping a future that is compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to positive change. Their willingness to understand and address the challenges faced by others is a testament to their character and their commitment to making the world a better place.
These visits have reinforced our belief that the future is in good hands. The empathy, dedication, and passion displayed by our students assure us that they are ready to lead with kindness and make a significant impact on the world. We often refer to these students as VIPs – very influential people. ‘Influencer’ is a very recent phenomenon, but the students understand their potential to influence opinion, policy and direction in the future. The future is indeed bright, thanks to the efforts and aspirations of these remarkable young individuals.