Building Hope Together – A Celebration of Impact

Supporters, partners, staff and friends of Simon Community came together at Belfast Harbour Commissioners’ Office on Thursday 24 September for Building Hope Together, a special celebration of the collective impact being made through the generosity and commitment of our supporters.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the difference that supporters make every day in the lives of people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Through shared stories, conversation and connection, guests heard first-hand about the positive changes being made possible across Simon Community services and the people whose lives have been transformed through access to support, opportunity and hope.

A particularly special part of the evening was the opportunity to recognise and thank Joe O’Neill as he comes to the end of his tenure as Chair of Simon Community. Throughout his time in the role, Joe has been a dedicated advocate for the organisation, championing our mission and helping to strengthen the impact we can have across Northern Ireland. We are deeply grateful for his leadership, commitment and unwavering support.

Guests also heard from Georgie, Simon Community’s Wellbeing Manager, who shared insights into the vital role wellbeing support plays in helping people build confidence, improve their mental health and take positive steps towards a more stable future.

The audience was also privileged to hear from Ngaire, who spoke powerfully about her own lived experience. Her story was a moving reminder of the challenges many people face and the life-changing difference that compassionate support can make.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Turley for generously sponsoring the drinks reception and helping to make the evening such a welcoming and enjoyable occasion.

Above all, Building Hope Together was an opportunity to thank everyone who stands alongside Simon Community. Whether through donating, fundraising, volunteering, partnering with us or advocating for change, our supporters play a crucial role in helping us provide services that prevent homelessness, support people through crisis and help them build a brighter future.

As we reflected on what has been achieved together, we were reminded that every success story begins with people who care enough to take action.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to all those who continue to support our work. Together, we are building hope, creating opportunities and working towards a future where no one has to face homelessness.