Amanda Mundell

From Hardship to Hope: Amanda Mundell's Journey of Resilience and Giving Back

In the heart of the Central Coast, a remarkable story of transformation unfolds. Amanda Mundell, once struggling with homelessness and battling mental health issues, now stands as a beacon of hope for her community. Her journey from a service user to a volunteer at Orange Sky exemplifies the power of resilience, community support, and the human spirit.

Amanda's story begins in a place of darkness. As a single mother raising two daughters, she faced numerous challenges including homelessness, mental health struggles, and the aftermath of domestic violence. "I've been through some pretty dark times," Amanda recalls. The weight of her circumstances was overwhelming, leading her to a point where hope seemed lost.

However, Amanda's life took a turn when she was approved for an NDIS plan for her mental health. This pivotal moment provided her with crucial wraparound supports, including psychology services and community engagement activities. These resources played a vital role in helping Amanda regain her mental footing and set the stage for her remarkable comeback.

Taking a leap of faith, Amanda applied for a cadetship with Pacific Link Housing. This decision marked the beginning of her professional transformation. She studied full-time, earned her Certificate IV in Housing, and now works as a tenancy manager. In this role, she assists people who are in situations similar to what she once experienced, bringing a unique level of empathy and understanding to her work.

Amanda's connection with Orange Sky, a free mobile laundry service for people experiencing homelessness, began when she was a service user. She vividly remembers the impact of the volunteers' kindness during those difficult times. "I felt really embarrassed," she admits, reflecting on her initial visits. "But he just spoke to me the whole time I was here, and he was so kind and so caring, and he didn't judge me for the situation I was in."

This experience left such a profound impression on Amanda that once she secured a job and housing, she made the decision to volunteer with Orange Sky. Her transition from service user to volunteer is a testament to her resilience and desire to give back to the community that supported her.

As a volunteer, Amanda brings a unique perspective to her role. She understands firsthand the challenges faced by those using the service and the immense impact a simple conversation can have. "You really do feel invisible when you're struggling," she explains. "To just sit here for a whole hour and be treated like I mattered, that meant so much, and that's how I wanted to make other people feel."

Amanda's story highlights the often hidden nature of struggle within communities. She emphasizes that many people experiencing hardship may not be visible, as it takes courage to seek help. Her experiences have given her insight into the complex issues facing her community, including homelessness, lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, and mental health challenges.

Looking to the future, Amanda continues to find ways to make a positive impact. She's becoming a spokesperson for the Good Box, an initiative providing essential items to those in need. Her goal is to raise awareness about the significant impact small acts of kindness can have on people's lives.

Amanda's journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of community support. Her story inspires hope and demonstrates that with the right support and determination, it's possible to overcome even the most challenging circumstances.