Ep.32 Kirsti Wilson | Launchpad: Supporting Those at Risk of Homelessness

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