"I can be part of a larger effort"

“I can clearly recall the confronting moment of hearing the heartfelt and gut wrenching story from someone who had been homeless and still trying to get their life back on track.”

For all the years Warren Bingham has taken part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, the stories shared by people supported through the funds raised continue to leave a lasting impression.

“The insights shared were tear jerking and emotional and it had me realising that being homeless is all about being alone and lonely,” recalls Warren.

“The realisation that by the time someone finds themselves living rough, on the street or couch surfing, it is most probably at a time when there is no-one left in their social circle – no friends or family who can support them in any way.”

Thankfully, through the generosity and support of business and community leaders, like Warren, Vinnies can offer a lifeline for the most vulnerable members of our community by providing accommodation, regular meals, clothing, healthcare and much more with the funds raised from the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

Growing up as the son of a minster, Warren has had a strong sense of social justice from a young age.

Continuing to hold those same principles in his professional life as the founder and executive chairman of MedTech International, a company committed to enhancing human health through technology, Warren has become a veteran of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout with 2022 set to be his 12th time braving the cold to raise vital funds to support Vinnies homelessness services.

With more than 116,000 people experiencing homelessness nationally according to the latest census data, Warren views his professional standing as an opportunity to bring awareness to one of the great challenges facing society.

“As a senior business leader in the community, I believe it is not only important and perhaps our moral duty to help others, but also vital that we raise awareness to our vast networks or family, friends, work and industry colleagues.”

“This is a huge problem that I alone cannot solve…. but I can certainly be part of a larger effort to help reduce homelessness and support those in need.“

With Vinnies experiencing increased demand for assistance during the pandemic, Warren is urging fellow business and community leaders to rise to the challenge on 23 June and gain much more than an insight into homelessness.

“Come along with an open mind and heart and you will leave with more than you came with.”

“The knowledge you will gain, the people you will hear from and the experience overall will potentially change the way you think for the rest of your life.

“You will meet many other like minded business leaders and if your experience is anything like mine, you’ll make life long friendships along the way.”

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Join Warren at the Vinnies CEO Sleepout on 23 June by registering as an individual or as part of a team at www.ceosleepout.org.au and play a part in bringing about change for the better.