Last December we held our annual fundraising event Stars in the Garden, hosted by our wonderful and dedicated supporters, Melanie and Robert Champion de Crespigny. Held in the gardens of the de Crespigny’s, guests enjoyed a dazzling Adelaide afternoon of food, wine and wonderful entertainment from our student band from partner school, Playford International College.
Our guest speaker, Richard Champion de Crespigney, heroic pilot of flight QF32, held the audience captive with his tale of triumph in the face of absolute disaster. And our ever charismatic auctioneer, Bernard Booth, both delighted and entertained guests as he held one of the most successful live auctions in Youth Opportunities history.
But, it was our student speaker, Jessica, who stole the show. Coinciding with her 16th birthday, Jessica took to the stage a confident young woman, sharing with the audience how Youth Opportunities has helped her to overcome the adversity in her life and facilitated a journey of life-long achievement, happiness and fulfilment.
In her speech, she said, “Since I have been in Youth Opportunities I have learnt new skills and strategies to challenge the belief that I have no confidence, happines s or motivation. I believe that this program has been the biggest part of my life so far and I believe I’m going to go far using the strategies and tools Youth Opportunities has taught me.”
Inspired by Jessica, our guests rose to the occasion and donated a very impressive $241,000. As a result of this generosity, we can keep making a difference to the lives of many of SA’s young people like our inspiring student Jessica.
There are many, many supporters big and small that we’d also like to thank, especially:
- Omega Communities providers of elegant senior living in the eastern suburbs with two beautiful communities at Leabrook Place and The Glenbrook.
- Vale Brewing– the perfect local brew for summer drinking.
- Handmade Catering– for their delicious food and also their generosity in donating two fully catered lunches in the major auction.
- The very generous Maxwell Wines– we hope you take up Mark’s offer to join The Clan or dine at their brilliant Ellen Street Restaurant soon.