A special night for Olivia’s Place
Olivia’s Place raised more than $56,000 at its recent charity ball which attracted 240 guests.
The annual charity gala was held at Lardner Park on Saturday August 17.
The event helps the Warragul based charity continue its support of Gippsland families through the highs and lows of pregnancy and early parenting.
Olivia’s Place president Kylie Sharp welcomed guests including Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood, Baw Baw Shire mayor Mikaela Power, Cr Jessica O’Donnell and Cr Peter Kostos.
Co-Founder and general manager of operations Kirsten Finger spoke about the growth of Olivia’s Place since its humble beginnings.
"This event has grown each year since it started, and that is all due to local people saying we value children, we value parents, and we want to help.
We're delighted with the support from the community,” she said.
The crowd enjoyed entertainment by Acoustic Reprise throughout the evening as MC Luke Patterson and auctioneer Paul Phillips had fun with the crowd during the live auction.
Guests also enjoyed raffles, games and silent auctions through the night. Local businesses were major contributors, with generous donations of items and vouchers contributing to the amount raised.
Former and current clients also spoke to the crowd on the night and recounted their own experiences with Olivia’s Place.
Speakers shared personal stories of difficulties in the early years of parenthood including the physical and mental toll that can sometimes strike new mothers and fathers, particularly in cases of split families.
The presenters spoke glowingly about the support they received from the Olivia’s Place family support team during these times.
Olivia's Place was co-founded in 2012 by Kirsten Finger and Melissa Raymond. Initially established under a national organisation, the charity is now independently governed by a local board.
Olivia’s Place’s mission is to offer support during any stage of pregnancy and to parents in the first year of a child's life.
The organisation provides practical, material and emotional support, and a muchneeded link between those facing difficulties during pregnancy and early parenting and the services they need.
All staff and volunteers have access to professional training specific to their role.
The gala has gone from strength to strength since its inception and 2019 was the biggest yet.
"This is the first year we have had the gala at Lardner Park. It's a much larger venue, so we were thrilled to be able to fill it,” Ms Finger said.