The annual event attracted hundreds of business people from western Sydney who pledged funds to support the centre. Sam Miguel Family Centre Manager Jennifer Wood said Celebrate the West was an opportunity to highlight the success of local heroes.
“The event gave us a chance to celebrate something really positive in what has been a tough year for some in Western Sydney,” she said.
All winners recounted stories of their western Sydney upbringing, saying the region had shaped their success and developed their world view on what it takes to be successful. The events raised tens of thousands of dollars for the family centre.
“The event was a great opportunity to help those less fortunate, with proceeds of the event going to the San Miguel Family Centre,” said Jennifer.
San Miguel’s caring staff provides more than temporary, emergency accommodation, they offer support, counselling and guidance to help families tackle the issues creating homelessness.
Parents receive support to improve life skills such as budgeting, cooking and communication and children receive support from child development workers to enter the local schools and return to education.
Event Patron Bryan Brown acted as Master of Ceremonies and Tex Perkins provided entertainment.
“There were live and silent auctions, helmed by comedian Vince Sorrenti, and an exclusive raffle to raise funds for San Miguel,” Ms Wood said.
“We hold this wonderful and unique event every year to celebrate the success of the Greater West and to bring together people from different walks of life for a wonderful cause.”
“This year’s event was a rousing success and we are already looking forward to the 2013 celebrations.
San Miguel Family Centre is a service of BoysTown.
