Sonu & Chris from Grant Thornton

As volunteers, we use hot cuppas and bickies as icebreakers to start great conversations that positively impact our patons’ lives. The joy on the faces of patrons is undeniable when they see the Rosies van approach outreach. They know they’re about to get a cuppa to warm their hands and a conversation to warm their hearts.  

We often take the cups, bickies, blankets and noodles we bring with us for granted, and so long as the cupboards are fully stocked, we don’t think about where they come from.  

The donations we receive have a profound impact on the connections we form. Rosies mission is made possible by our corporate partners who truly believe in the power of connection. Many don’t realise the extent of the donations that come from corporate partners like Grant Thornton, one of the world’s leading organisations of independent assurance, tax and advisory firms.  

Sharing our volunteering experience has proven to have a profound impact on our depth and longevity of our partnerships. Over the last 2 years, our partnership with Grant Thornton has seen them send 23 of their graduate cohort out on outreach as part of their staff onboarding process. By sharing the coalface experience with our corporate partners, we’re providing a vehicle to help spread the word about the incredible work Rosies does in the community, broadening our reach within circles we wouldn’t otherwise penetrate.  

Volunteering with us has been an eye-opening journey for many at Grant Thornton, including Amaia Mendiolea, who shares, “It has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me gain insight into the lives of people doing it tough within our community.”  

Mark Szonyi’s experience paints a vivid picture of the joy that comes from making a difference: “As soon as I got out of the van and set up the snack stand, I quickly found that there is no better feeling in the world than seeing the smiles on someone’s face. The smallest gestures, like an extra biscuit or a cup of cordial, have the power to uplift spirits and bring warmth to the hearts of those we serve.” 

Jack Galvin highlights the impact the program had on him, stating, “Participating in the program gave me the ability to talk to people from all walks of life, humbled me and gave me an eye opener to other cultures within our community.”  

Your volunteer experiences are not just meaningful for the individuals you serve but also for our relationships with corporate donors. Sharing your stories amplifies the voices of those we help and ignites a deeper connection with our corporate partners, inspiring them to continue their support and actively participate in creating positive change.