Vinnies pays tribute to long-time Passages Chair
Vinnies WA has honoured the long-time Chair of the Passages Youth Engagement Hubs Committee, David Reed.
At a ceremony at Passages Perth, Vinnies WA Chief Executive Susan Rooney presented David with a plaque in recognition of his service.
Passages Youth Engagement Hubs are located in Perth and Mandurah, and are delivered as a joint venture between Vinnies WA and the Rotary Club of Perth.
David led the committee for 22 years, but decided to step down earlier this year. His passion for Passages won’t end there though – he’ll be staying on as an ordinary committee member.
“It’s been a great honour to serve as Chair of the Passages Committee and make a contribution to this incredible service,” David said.
“I’m so proud that the Passages Youth Engagement Hubs in Perth and Mandurah are making a difference to young people experiencing homelessness every day.
“There’s always more work to be done, but I know that with Ashley Ladner as Chair, the committee will be in good hands.”
CEO Susan Rooney paid tribute to David and thanked him for his extraordinary contribution.
“Vinnies WA is incredibly grateful to have had someone of David Reed’s calibre as Chair of the Passages Committee,” she said.
“Passages Youth Engagement Hubs exist because of David. It was his drive and vision that first brought the idea to fruition – the success of Passages Youth Engagement Hubs, and the difference they have made to the lives of so many vulnerable young people, is in large part due to David’s remarkable commitment and leadership.”
The success of Passages speaks for itself.
In the 2020-21 financial year, 1,477 new and existing clients visited the Hubs, with 5,477 total visits by clients to the two facilities. Over 700 referrals were provided for additional support services, which clients accessed on more than 33,000 occasions. These services included legal, medical, alcohol and drug support, Centrelink and financial support.
David was born and raised in Kalgoorlie and over 40 years he built a successful career that took him from stockbroking to prospecting and mining.
He is currently the Non-Executive Director for Perth-based minerals and advanced materials company Neometals.
David’s other passion is giving back to his community, having served as President of the Rotary Club both in Kalgoorlie and in Perth.
It was in that role that David saw the growing rate of youth homelessness in Perth needed a specialised service to engage young people.
This led to the founding of Passages Youth Engagement Hubs, first in Perth and then in Mandurah.
Away from the corporate world and from his community work, David has a keen interest in horses and enjoys travelling and playing golf. We’re hoping that now he might find a bit of extra time out on the green.