National Volunteering Week: Creating homes, not just houses

Nearly ten years ago, she set out to help people facing homelessness or at risk of it. That led her to community housing, where she now serves as a non‑executive director on the board of Coast2Bay Housing Group and Purpose Real Estate, a social enterprise within the group that returns its profits to support community housing initiatives.

“I made a conscious decision that I wanted to get involved in community housing,” Leanne says. “Something where I could help people have not just a house, but a home.”

A long-term commitment to making a difference

Leanne started volunteering with Purpose Real Estate in 2018, then joined the Coast2Bay board a year later. Her role is much more than just attending meetings. She helps with strategic planning, governance, stakeholder engagement, and connecting with community partners to understand what support people need.

At Coast2Bay, providing housing is just one part of what they do. The team also works with partners to offer extra support, helping people regain stability, build connections, and feel more confident to be part of the community in which they live.

Moments that stay with you

Board members don’t usually meet residents face-to-face, but the stories they hear show the impact of their work. One story, in particular, has stuck with Leanne.

A single dad had just moved into a townhouse with his toddler and newborn. He was doing his best, but had trouble with something as simple as warming baby formula safely. One of the team members noticed and bought him a microwave.

“The note of thanks that came back, and the tears of joy, it was just… those small things matter,” she says. “It’s not just about giving someone a place to live. It’s about helping them feel supported.”

There are many moments like this. Families escaping family and domestic violence move into safe, fully furnished homes. Children see their own rooms for the first time, with toys chosen just for them. 

“These are the moments that are both joyful and heartbreaking,” Leanne says. 

Putting your skills to use in new ways

Leanne uses her professional skills in her volunteer work, including financial management and leasing, as well as building relationships and leveraging her industry contacts. It’s a chance for her to use the skills she gained in corporate real estate in a new setting.

“For me, it’s like a reset,” she says. “I can take what I’ve learned and use it to make a positive change in people’s lives.”

Why volunteering matters

For Leanne, volunteering is about responsibility just as much as it is about feeling fulfilled.

“I think we all have a responsibility to do something for others,” she says. “This is a way I know I’m contributing to positive change.” 

Support from Knight Frank has made it easier to stay committed. With two days of paid volunteer leave available each year, Leanne can take part in key activities such as strategic planning sessions and annual meetings without needing to dip into annual leave.

“Knowing I have that support makes a huge difference,” she says. “It means I can say yes when it matters.” 

Leanne’s advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is simple.

“Find something that really connects to your passion. That’s what keeps you engaged and makes it meaningful. And if you’re thinking about using your volunteer leave for the first time, be upfront and talk to your manager early about what you want to do and why. That support makes it much easier.” 

National Volunteering Week reminds us that there are many ways to help. You can share your skills, join a board, or help out in your community. Even small efforts can make a lasting difference.

As Leanne puts it, “It’s a lot of fun, and you get a great sense of fulfilment out of it. Just go for it.”