Steve Sutton
Steve Sutton, a retired finance professional, shares his journey as an Orange Sky volunteer, highlighting the impact of laundry services and human connection.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
"I would say I was probably unaware of how many people are homeless. And, you know, I've sort of done shifts here. I've done shifts at Wyong. I've done shifts at Woi Woi. So you get to see different sort of areas."
"What's needed is obviously more affordable accommodation. I think that's, you know, how we're going to address that, I don't know, but there needs to be more money into, you know, affordable housing for people."
"I think it's the interaction with the people is good. Like just the friends are really, really grateful and will come up to you quite often and say, look thanks, we really appreciate what you do."
"I would say I was probably unaware of how many people are homeless. And, you know, I've sort of done shifts here. I've done shifts at Wyong. I've done shifts at Woi Woi. So you get to see different sort of areas."
"From Finance to Frontline: Steve Sutton's Journey with Orange Sky"
In the heart of the Central Coast, Steve Sutton's story unfolds as a powerful testament to the impact of volunteering in retirement. After 36 years in finance and business banking, Steve found himself at a crossroads, seeking a meaningful way to spend his newfound free time. His journey with Orange Sky not only filled that void but also opened his eyes to the realities of homelessness in his community.
Steve's introduction to Orange Sky came through a Facebook ad, piquing his interest in October of the previous year. "I thought that looks pretty interesting. Wouldn't mind giving that a crack, see what it's like," he recalls. This curiosity led him to embark on a journey that would challenge his perceptions and enrich his retirement years.
Initially, Steve's experience with Orange Sky was quiet, with few friends using the service. However, a pivotal moment came when the local neighborhood center relocated near their operations. "It's been really good. So a lot of people have come to get, you know, support, food support, hampers. You know, talk to people about trying to get accommodation and then it just sort of picked up from there," Steve explains. This increase in activity highlighted the vital role Orange Sky plays in the community.
One of the most striking aspects of Steve's experience has been the shift in his understanding of homelessness. "I would say I was probably unaware of how many people are homeless," he reflects. Through his shifts in various locations, Steve has encountered a diverse range of individuals experiencing homelessness, challenging his preconceptions. "You sort of just wonder why are you living out of a van. So, you know, sometimes you think but for the grace of God go I," he shares, illustrating the profound impact these interactions have had on his perspective.
Steve emphasises the importance of Orange Sky's laundry services, noting how it fills a crucial need for those who can't afford or access laundry facilities. But beyond the practical service, he highlights the human connection aspect. "The friends are really, really grateful and will come up to you quite often and say, look thanks, we really appreciate what you do," Steve says, underscoring the emotional impact of the service.
As a van leader, Steve has taken on additional responsibilities, despite his self-proclaimed lack of mechanical expertise. His willingness to "give it a go" exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that drives Orange Sky. "I come from finance. I've got no mechanical background at all... But no, look, the support's pretty good," he shares, highlighting the comprehensive training and support Orange Sky provides to its volunteers.
Steve's insights into the broader issues surrounding homelessness are particularly poignant. He recognizes the urgent need for affordable housing, especially in the face of rising property prices on the Central Coast. "What's needed is obviously more affordable accommodation... but there needs to be more money into, you know, affordable housing for people," he asserts, touching on a critical issue facing many communities.
The collaborative nature of Orange Sky's work with other service providers and local government is something Steve particularly appreciates. "I like what they do here. I think working in partnership with the local government, I think it's a really important thing," he notes, emphasising the power of a united approach to addressing homelessness.
For Steve, the rewards of volunteering are multifaceted. The gratitude of friends, the camaraderie among volunteers, and the personal satisfaction of making a difference all contribute to his continued commitment. "I just get a bit of a kick out of doing it, I think," he says, encapsulating the fulfilment many volunteers find in their service.
As Orange Sky celebrates its 10th anniversary, Steve's journey from finance professional to dedicated volunteer serves as a powerful example of the impact one person can have in retirement. His story reminds us of the importance of community service, the power of human connection, and the ongoing need for innovative solutions to address homelessness.
