STEPS Bring Star Studded Event to Support Pathways College

STEPS Charity are working hard to diversify their offering and bring a unique fundraising event in challenging times.

The STEPS Virtual Grand Winter Ball presented by BA Murphy Constructions will be a very special fundraising event supported by a star-studded line up, including ARIA award winning pop group Sheppard, and Australia’s most loved artists – Anthony Callea, Tim Campbell, Paulini, together with a mega raffle, dance performances, trivia and more, the virtual event will celebrate ability and inclusiveness even during a global pandemic.

STEPS Pathways College is changing lives for young Australians living with disability just like Tom Amerena, one of the first students to enrol at the college when it opened four years ago.

Now, he has embarked on the next chapter of his life, living independently in Melbourne, after graduating as part of the first cohort from the Sunshine Coast college last year.

Tom’s father Paul Amerena said since his son’s graduation, Tom has moved to Melbourne by himself to reach his goal of living independently and has not looked back.

“The college was the greatest thing that’s ever happened, the best thing for Tom, and the best thing for us as parents,” Mr Amerena said.

“Tom now lives independently, in an apartment in West Brunswick, has his 26 cousins close by that all visit him regularly, and he’s just having a ball.
“He’s so busy with activities, social clubs and of course his beloved AFL.

“We looked around for a long time when we were still living in Victoria for something like STEPS Pathways College, and there was just nothing like it around.

“We were so happy to find it here on the Sunshine Coast, it was the conduit that has enabled his independent lifestyle.

“Tom, as he said to me other day, he’s living the dream, the college has provided the independence that Tom deserves.

“Just because you have a disability it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have an independent lifestyle,” Mr Amerena said.

STEPS say they are constantly amazed at what students can do when given the opportunity.

All proceeds from the STEPS Virtual Grand Winter Ball raised will go to the extension of the STEPS Pathways College and building brighter futures.

The two-hour event starts from 7pm and is jam packed full of celebrity guests, performances, trivia and more. Tickets are only $150 per household. Tickets on sale now at www.stepsvirtualgrandwinterball.com.au

Image: Paul and Tom Amerena