MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020: Armed with extensive human-service industry experience and qualifications to match, new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lesley Leece will hit the ground running in driving 3rd Space’s mission to break the cycle of homelessness.

As CEO of 3rd Space – the Fortitude Valley drop-in centre providing services for people who are homeless and doing it tough – Lesley will draw on 40 years of experience in homelessness, disability services, child protection, family support, domestic and family violence, physical, mental and child health, and older persons’ programs.

From her first job as a social worker to more recently holding senior leadership roles in major non-government organisations such as PeakCare, Uniting Care and the Endeavour Foundation, Lesley knows firsthand how tough it can be for people who are marginalised.

She particularly understands the complexity that surrounds people who are homeless from her experience in leading services for young people, families and marginalised adults who have become rough sleepers due to challenging circumstances.

“Covid-19 has further highlighted the already growing issues of homelessness, mental health and domestic and family violence. Yet we know that with the right support, we can get people into safe accommodation and help them manage social challenges,” Lesley said.

“In addition to providing a safe space, 3rd Space is about promoting dignity and helping people to build resilience – with a long-term goal of sustaining a better life.

“I am excited to be part of such an important organisation and look forward to building on the great work done during 3rd Space’s proud 45-year history.”

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