Charity Ball gives back to young adults with a disability or autism
In another amazing night of success, the STEPS Grand Winter Ball delivered their famous annual charity event supported by an array of stars.
Liz Cantor, Paulini, Adriano Zumbo and Alastair McLeod were all in attendance on the star-studded night to support the cause.
This year’s Ball featured a regal theme, with the Sunshine Coast Function Centre being decorated to the nines with chandeliers, golden embellishments, and floral backdrops to reflect the theme.
The STEPS Grand Winter Ball also featured a first-class menu delivered by Mr. McLeod, who used his extensive experience in Michelin listed restaurants to deliver breathtaking takes on local food specialties.
“We would love to thank the Sunshine Coast Function Centre for hosting the most magical night,” Carmel Crouch, Managing Director of STEPS, said.
“From the amazing food to the incredible ambience of the room, the Sunshine Coast Function Centre delivered more than we could have imagined.”
Guests were also treated to a special performance from Paulini, who delivered a range of powerful songs to the enthralled audience.
During Paulini’s performance, the chart-topping singer was joined by students from STEPS Pathways College who helped to sing a thank you to the audience for attending the event.
The annual Ball helps to raise vital funds for STEPS Pathways College, Australia’s first and only boarding College for young adults with a disability or autism.
STEPS Pathways College acts as a safe and supportive environment for young adults to learn the essential skills required to move out of home and live independent and fulfilling lives.
With students uniquely being able to live independently on campus in a simulated living environment, students learn beyond theory in the classroom and practice their new skills in real situations every day.
The world class model has proved highly successful, with many of the College’s past graduates attending the Ball and showing off the new independent lives they are leading.
The Ball was also attended by many current STEPS Pathways College students and their parents who were able to share in the excitement of the experience and connect with the guests.
“It was amazing for our students to be able to come and see the incredible support for them here in the Sunshine Coast community,” Ms. Crouch said.
“The chance for them to look around and know that so many people believe in them, believe in their journey, and believe in what they can do; it’s indescribable.”
The night also featured a very special performance from the Sunshine Dance Troup, an amazing group of young adults who identify as having a disability.
One of the group’s performers was Elli, a current student at STEPS Pathways College who undertakes the College’s café work experience course.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who got involved on this special night, we cannot express how much your support means to our students; life-changing almost seems an understatement,” Ms. Crouch concluded.
“We look forward to delivering an even more incredible event next year and celebrating all the amazing things our students will achieve throughout the rest of this year thanks to our community’s great support.”
IMAGE: STEPS Pathways College student Elli, performing with the Sunshine Dance Troupe at the STEPS Grand Winter Ball 2021, presented by Evans Long.
