Vicki Prout, CEO of franchise and business consultancy firm, Sherpa Group, and Quest franchisee, Andrew Edsor, are helping out a good cause by joining the national fundraising St Vincent de Paul CEO Sleepout event this Thursday 16 June.

Event participants will spend one night sleeping outside with limited bedding and selected food to experience homelessness first-hand.

“Like the traditional Sherpa, who braves the elements, protects where they can, leads from the front, carries packs and guides, I am hoping my small part will enlighten and encourage others to donate and become aware of the difficulties faced by many within our society. By no means, do I think it will be easy – scaling Mt Everest might be simpler!” Prout said.

“But by joining the cause to raise awareness of homelessness and necessary funds, we can positively to the thousands of people around South Australia [and nationally] who experience disadvantage.”

As a hotelier, Quest North Ryde franchisee Andrew Edsor is acutely aware that while his guests are comfortably accommodated there are many people sleeping every night without the most basic comforts.

Esdor has raised more than $2,500 so far.

“Quest North Ryde is very comfortable and on a day to day basis I take for granted the secure, warm and clean accommodation I enjoy. The reality is that so many people are without these basic things, which is a humbling and sobering reality check.

“Also, my wife, who has long worked in social housing is constantly reminding me that without a roof over your head you cannot become a productive member of society. With no address it is very difficult to access many of the services and support facilities we take for granted and the homeless are in some ways invisible, forgotten and thus marginalised.

“Hopefully my support of St Vinnies will assist their efforts to support Australia’s homeless and raise awareness of this important issue.”

The Vinnies CEO Sleepout began locally in Sydney in 2006 before expanding to a national event and raising over $2.9 million in 2010. Money raised goes towards funding new projects, crisis accommodation, domestic violence and support counselling, life and occupational skills, and legal advice and education.

*Want to help out a good cause? Donations and sponsorship for Vicki can be made online here and are tax deductible.