By Peter Douglas
A team of five Lilydale Anglicare workers are about to take a leap of faith from a 27-storey building – as part of an adventurous bid to raise funds for local disadvantaged youth.
Members Catherine, Celeste, Donna, Kathy and Tori – better-known as team Eastern Spirit – will take part in the Altitude Shift event on Friday 28 April.
Their participation will see them abseil down Melbourne’s iconic St James building, which stands a daunting 113 metres high.
The aim of the challenge is to highlight the difficulties associated with living outside of the ‘comfort zone’.
When living in and out of homes, many young Victorians experience this every year.
Team member Celeste admitted there were a few nerves creeping in, though it was mixed with much excitement.
“We’ve created this team because five strong, spirited women believe in taking the plunge down a building to raise awareness and money for kids in care,” she said.
“These kids need our help to give them opportunities they don’t get because of their family situations.
“There are a few nerves already setting in among some of the team members, but this is a great way to extend relationships.”
While the members all work throughout the Eastern Victorian region, they work in different departments.
Celeste said it had been a great way for them to bond over a common goal, helping in-need youth.
“The team was formed by two members, deciding they would participate in the personal challenge for a cause that resonated with them,” she said.
“They then asked anyone they saw if they wanted to join the team.
“This resulted in our team having members who all work in different programs and areas across different sites in the Anglicare eastern region.
“All five team members not only work in the Anglicare east region, but live there as well, so we feel connected to the eastern community of children and young people in care and the dedicated carers and staff who look after them.”
Celeste said the experience of being out of their comfort zone didn’t even begin to compare to those life experiences of those they were aiming to help.
As Victoria’s largest foster care provider, Anglicare Victoria houses more than 400 children per night.
In addition to foster and residential care, their services cover emergency relief, parenting and family services, financial and legal services and more.
So far, team Eastern Spirit has raised $1830, with a goal of $2125.
To help their cause, visit http://bit.ly/2oxE8ju.
