Andrew Hrsto talks about the ALAND Foundation

What is the purpose of the Foundation?
“As a company ALAND has always been very community-focussed. Over the years we’ve supported a wide range of grassroots organisations – from sporting clubs to schools and small neighbourhood charities. The ALAND Foundation provides a formal structure for our philanthropic work with a clear focus on education, housing, social welfare and health.”

Where did the idea of a Foundation come from?
“I wanted to start the Foundation from day one – that was 23 years ago – but naturally we’ve been focussed on the day-to-day needs of the company. Over recent years ALAND has grown substantially and achieved great success. Now is the ideal time to finally launch the Foundation.”

How did you choose the charity partners?
“The Foundation is all about achieving concrete results and making a real difference to people’s lives. So, it made sense to partner with established charities who each had a strong track record in their respective areas – that’s how we chose Foodbank, Habitat for Humanity and Youth off the Streets; pluswe’d worked with Habitat for Humanity’s Brush with Kindness program, so that was a natural fit for us.”

Describe your own motivation?
“It has lot to do with my own Christian beliefs and values. I suppose that stems from my upbringing. I was always told as a child that if you are in a position to help others, then it’s your obligation to do so. ALAND has always been about giving back to the community. That’s an essential part of the company’s DNA.”

Describe your own childhood?
“I grew up in Fairfield. Both of my parents were European migrants. My dad was a crane operator and mum worked on the production line of an aluminium factory. I definitely learnt the value of hard work from my parents. And that lesson has stayed with me.”

What part has sport played in your life?
Growing up in the western suburbs, rugby league was a part of my everyday life. Playing footy with my friends is one of the happiest memories of my childhood. My other sporting passion was tennis.”

What are the major issues of today?
“Where do I start? Health, education and homelessness are huge problems facing modern Australia, but I think the housing crisis is the number one issue because that impacts on every aspect of a person’s life. The federal government has set an ambitious target of building 1.2 million new homes before 2029, but these numbers are just not realistic. The banks, planning authorities, government have got to rethink the way we build in this country and come up with more innovative solutions.”

How is ALAND making a difference?
“From day one ALAND has had a clear focus on building high-quality attainable homes where people want to live,and that tradition continues. Along the way we’ve created vibrant new communities in places like Merrylands, Schofields and Harris Park. Today, we have over 6,000 new apartments in the pipeline and are taking on urban renewal projects that will transform sites across Sydney and Gosford.”

What is your message to donors?
“Even the smallest donation makes a difference. For instance, Foodbank will provide two free meals for every $1 donated – so think about the thousands of people who can be fed! Our charity partners report a huge spike in demand for their services. Now is the time to pitch in financially or by volunteering your time. Together, we can make a difference.”