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OAC Raises Over $16,000 in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout

Posted on June 24, 2025

On Thursday night, June 19th, a group of Open Access College Executive leaders, calling ourselves “OAC Nightshift”, participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout at the Adelaide Zoo. This annual event raises vital funds and awareness to support the thousands of Australians, including around 7,500 South Australians, who are without safe and secure housing on any given night.

One of the most powerful parts of the evening was hearing from Duncan. Duncan’s story reminded us that homelessness can affect anyone at any time. Duncan, a man who had worked full-time for most of his life found himself homeless at the start of 2025. His story was very moving and provided us insight into the plight of homeless Australians. With the support of Vinnies, Duncan was able to access safe accommodation as well as the practical and emotional support he needed to rebuild his life.

Sleeping outside for one night gave us a small glimpse into the isolation and discomfort that so many experience regularly but didn’t touch on the feelings of loss, aloneness and invisibility. We were fortunate as the night was relatively warm, it didn’t rain, and we were in a safe, controlled environment. Most significantly, we could return home the next morning to shower, eat, and reconnect with our families. That contrast to the lived reality of people facing homelessness was confronting and humbling. It reminded us how critical security, dignity, and support are and how easily they can be lost.

Thanks to the generous support of our school community, we raised more than $16,000 that Vinnies can use on the ground to provide:

• 30 families with emergency accommodation for a night
• 200+ families can be fed for a day
• 129 households can keep their power on this winter
• 51 people can be moved off the street into safe accommodation
• 47 individuals can receive personalised support services
• 94 beds can be provided for people in need
• 470 hot meals can be served to people facing hunger

This incredible outcome was only possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of many.

Our Generous Donors - Raffle Item Contributors

We would like to thank:

• Our donors, for your heartfelt contributions
• Our auction and raffle item contributors, for your generous donations of goods and services
• Our bidders, for your enthusiastic participation
• Our staff, for your support and encouragement
• Our students, for your empathy, questions, and interest in the cause
• Our families and school community, for standing alongside us every step of the way

This experience didn’t just raise funds; it deepened our understanding. It reminded us that real change often begins with awareness, and that every act of kindness can ripple outward.

With sincere gratitude,

The Open Access College Executive Team – OAC Nightshift