In this episode, Kirsti Wilson, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at Launchpad, shares Launchpad's holistic approach to supporting individuals at risk of homelessness, including prevention services, providing safe and supportive housing, and offering rehabilitation programs to help individuals rebuild their lives.

Kirsti emphasises the importance of local support for charities like Launchpad and encourages listeners to consider various ways to contribute, from financial donations and volunteering to simply raising awareness within their own networks.

We also discuss the challenges that Kirsti and her team have faced in fundraising and how they have overcome these through their adaptable and collaborative approach.

TIME CODES

00:00 introduction

00:28 Welcome

01:02 Introduction to Kirsti Wilson

01:26 What Kirsti Wilson likes about Reading

01:56 Launchpad’s mission and how it helps people in Reading

04:54 Launchpad’s start and how it’s changed over the years

05:42 Causes behind added demand for Launchpad’s services

07:10 Homelessness myths

09:56 Overcoming fundraising challenges

11:45 Connecting with small businesses and ways to support Launchpad

15:10 How to find a charity to support

16:10 Launchpad’s plans going forwards

18:05 Launchpad’s collaborative approach

19:10 Kirsti’s favourite story of someone Launchpad has helped

22:08 Final thoughts