Oasis celebrates 20 years with glittering ball
Salvation Army Majors Paul and Robbin Moulds speak with guests at the Oasis Ball. (Photo: Dean Golja)
We are building a new generation, we are building security for young people who are making such a courageous step out of darkness into light.
– Major Robbin Moulds, Director, The Salvation Army Oasis Youth Support Network.
The Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network has celebrated its 20th anniversary at its annual Oasis Ball, raising tens of thousands of dollars to further its work with homeless and disadvantaged young people.
The ball, hosted by Australian TV and radio presenter, James Kerley, was held at the Crystal Palace in Sydney’s Luna Park. More than 400 guests enjoyed dinner, took part in auctions and heard about the serious issue of youth homelessness and how they can help.
Australian TV and radio presenter, James Kerley, hosted the Oasis Ball. (Photo: Rony Ahmed)
Major Robbin Moulds, Director of the Oasis Youth Support Network, reflected on the history of Oasis when she spoke about the importance of partnerships between the organisation and individuals, corporations and government agencies.
“Oasis from the very beginning started because of a partnership, and we have held strong to this all along. It is in the fibre of our foundation,” she said.
“I have found that when we embrace and pull wounded young people into the centre of Oasis and into the centre of our partnerships, that a surprising phenomenon called ‘synergy’ is developed.
“Synergy is where the weak and the strong come together in ways they could never have imagined. I am forever surprised by the creativeness of our partnerships and what we achieve in continuing to work together to meet the challenges that are before us.”
Major Moulds went on to outline how various businesses have partnered with Oasis to provide job placement and training for young people connected with the network – leading to lasting change in their lives.
The ball itself was a training ground for a small team of budding photographers who are participating in the PALM project – the Oasis photography course. They interacted with the guests to produce high-quality photographs of the event.
Before closing, Major Moulds urged those in attendance to consider their partnership with Oasis as a personal one.
“You see, it's not about the money, it's not about the proceeds, it's not about programs,” she said.
“It is about a presence. Of your presence. Of how you can make a difference in a young person’s life.”
There are many ways that individuals, groups and businesses can partner with The Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged young people. To find out more, go to: salvos.org.au/oasis/
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