On Wednesday Depaul celebrated its 30th anniversary with a reception at the House of Lords, in Parliament, co-sponsored by Depaul International ambassador Baroness Suttie, and Baroness Grenda MBE.
Depaul has grown from just one project in Willesden, north London, in 1989 to now helping 19,500 people and operating in seven countries. It was truly special to celebrate this remarkable achievement in such a beautiful venue surrounded by many of the people that have contributed to the enormous success of Depaul, including some of the founding staff. It was particularly apt that some services users of Depaul were able to attend, reminding us of Depaul’s vision that everyone, regardless of their background, should have a place to call home.
Speeches were given by our Group CEO Mark McGreevy and by Depaul UK CEO Mike Thiedke. Mark recalled working in Depaul’s first project, and charted our growth outside London, into Ireland and then across Europe and further afield.
Of course, our work is far from done, especially as there are an estimated 100 million people living without a home across the world. Depaul’s continued work is needed now more than ever. Thank you to all the staff, volunteers and supporters that have supported us over the past three decades and who enable Depaul to continue to change the lives of homeless people across the globe. As Baroness Suttie said on Wednesday, we look forward to another 30 years of successful work!
