Head Start Homes Annual General Meeting 2024

🌟 A Night of Inspiration and Achievement 🌟

Yesterday, we held our 7th Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking another year of remarkable growth and unwavering commitment to our vision of providing safe and stable housing for everyone. The event was a heart-warming celebration of our collective achievements, the inspiring journeys of our clients, and the dedication of our team, partners, and supporters.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from our Chair, Vanessa Chan, who expressed gratitude to all attendees and declared the meeting open.

Acknowledgement of Country 🖤💛❤️ Our Aunty in Residence Fran Dobbie, a proud Yuin woman from the NSW South Coast, provided a moving acknowledgment of country who honoured the traditional custodians of the lands on which we gathered.

Kamini’s Film 🎥 One of the highlights of the evening was an exclusive preview of Kamini's short film. Kamini, a remarkable mum who has overcome significant challenges to achieve her dream of homeownership, shared her inspiring journey. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of our Empowerment Services at Head Start Homes. The video, produced by Hugh Fenton at Enlightening Films, beautifully captured Kamini's resilience and determination. Prior to the film's release, Kate, Natasha, and Stephen spoke about how inspiring Kamini had been for them and the ripple effects her positive story will have for generations to come.

Kamini attended the AGM as our guest of honour and spoke about her story, including how Head Start Homes helped her to open her own doors to a brighter future.

“I've transformed from a person who was just existing to now. I feel really driven more confident. Like it's the journey that I've gone through learning all those new skills. That's what's made the difference. So yeah, I am a different person now. I think that there's hope," said Kamini.

Kamini also answered questions from the attendees, further inspiring everyone with her incredible journey.

Stephen Woodlands expressed his deep appreciation to Kamini for sharing her powerful and inspirational story, stating,

"I just want to say thank you for inspiring us and for sharing your story and for the positive ripple effects that is going to have for now and into the future."

Chair’s Address: Empowerment and Growth 📈 Our Chair Vanessa Chan’s address highlighted another year of exponential growth. Vanessa emphasized our commitment to supporting single parents, First Nations people, people with disabilities, refugees, and migrant families. She celebrated the significant strides made in client empowerment, financial stability, and the development of ground-breaking initiatives like the affordable rent-to-buy solution. "It's a real privilege to Chair this dynamic social enterprise as we work together towards transformative solutions to homelessness, housing security and affordability. And it is a privilege for me personally. To get to work with Stephen.. Stephen you are a Unicorn. You are a rare breed, a person of unwavering determination, resilience, imagination."

Founder’s Address: Client Success and Financial Milestones 💰 Stephen Woodlands, Founder and Managing Director of Head Start Homes, provided an overview of the financial achievements, including raising $5.7 million for our recycling capital fund. This funding will enable us to push forward with guarantees and launch new initiatives to disrupt the housing and home ownership system, making it fairer for families. Stephen also highlighted the doubling of home ownership outcomes, with 18 homes purchased and 166 families supported through empowerment services. He praised the dedication of the home ownership success team, led by Kate Fenton, for their tireless efforts in supporting clients on their journey to home ownership.

Team Expansion 👥 The AGM also celebrated the expansion of the Head Start Homes team, welcoming new members who bring energy and passion to our mission. This growth has been instrumental in achieving significant client outcomes and advocating for more equal access to housing and home ownership.

Formal Proceedings 📜 The meeting included the reappointment of SDJ Audit Pty Ltd as our auditor and the re-election of Directors Vanessa Chan, Joel Larsen, and Jodie Stevens.

Reflections and Gratitude 🙏 Throughout the AGM, heartfelt reflections and gratitude were provided by attendees including our Inaugural Chair Graham Brown and Directors Joel Larsen, and Jodie Stevens. They expressed their appreciation for the leadership of Vanessa Chan, the dedication of the team, and the unwavering support of partners and volunteers.

Stephen thanked the funding partners for their substantial support, specifically mentioning, Our Founding Partner Westpac, Wollongong Council, Snow Foundation, Aboriginal Housing Office, Lendlease, Stockland and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation. He expressed gratitude for their contributions, which have been instrumental in supporting Head Start Homes' programs and initiatives.

Stephen also thanked our in-kind partners for their significant contributions, which is valued at over $4m to date. He acknowledged their support, which has been crucial in providing various services and expertise to Head Start Homes.

Looking Ahead 🔮 As Head Start Homes moves forward, we remain committed to expanding our empowerment products and services, launching innovative solutions, and advocating for breaking the cycles of disadvantage in communities. The AGM was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of collective efforts and the importance of continuing to work towards a fairer housing system.

Thank You 💖 We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our board, dedicated staff, partners, volunteers, and clients for your courage, determination, and unwavering support. Together, we are making a real difference in creating pathways to home ownership and achieving social justice.

Join Us 🌏 Stay connected with Head Start Homes as we continue to work towards transformative solutions to homelessness, housing security, and affordability. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of families and communities.

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