In a recent episode of REB’s Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, Deborah de Rossi, CEO of You Matter, and Nicholas Brooks, director and auctioneer at Marshall White Stonnington, discussed the critical role of community—especially men—in raising awareness, initiating conversations, and speaking out about family violence.
CommunityMarshall White & You Matter
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A Partnership for Change
03 December 2024
Alongside host Juliet Helmke, they explored how You Matter plays a vital role in supporting women and children who have been impacted by family violence. Deborah explained how the charity organisation helps ensure housing security for these vulnerable individuals. Since its founding in 2019, You Matter has set up nearly 250 personalised havens for women and children who have left abusive situations. Beyond providing essentials—like beds, linens, and kitchenware—You Matter creates customised, welcoming spaces that respect each woman’s preferences, from colour schemes to personal interests, to help women feel valued and secure as they rebuild their lives.
This September, a powerful event was held to address family violence. The “Stand Up in September” campaign called on men to pledge solidarity against family violence, addressing the 40% spike seen during the AFL finals. Emphasising the crucial role men play in fostering respectful relationships, the event raised $27,000 on the night for You Matter and opened valuable conversations. As Nicholas Brooks put it, “Sunlight is a great disinfectant—shining a light on family violence leaves it with nowhere to hide.”
Nicholas described the profound experience of representing the real estate industry as one of You Matter’s “Top 8” men—community leaders who have pledged to stand against family violence. He shared how charitable initiatives create a lasting positive impact on both the community and organisations like Marshall White.
As a major corporate partner of You Matter, Marshall White contributes through donations of funds, furniture, and volunteer hours. During quarterly “warehouse days,” our team members gather to assemble furniture and prepare kitchen packs for the havens You Matter furnishes for families. Our support also includes sourcing furniture destined for disposal from properties we manage, helping create welcoming spaces for those in need.
Initiatives like “Stand Up in September” reflect You Matter’s belief, shared by our team, that family violence is a community issue best confronted with collective support, compassion, and awareness.
