At Evolution Business Systems, our EPIC values are more than words on a wall. They guide how we work with our customers, support one another, and contribute to the communities around us. Recently, a group of EBS team members spent the day volunteering at the Magpie Nest Café, operated by The Salvation Army’s Project 614 in Melbourne, where people experiencing homelessness and hardship can access meals, support and connection. The experience was both humbling and inspiring, reminding us of the power of small acts of kindness and the importance of giving back.
Throughout the day, our team assisted with a range of tasks including welcoming patrons, taking orders, serving meals, clearing tables and supporting the café team as they delivered breakfast and lunch service to the community. While we arrived expecting to lend a helping hand, we left with a much deeper appreciation for the challenges many people face every day and the incredible work organisations like Project 614 do to create a safe and welcoming environment.
The Importance of Being Seen
One of the most meaningful aspects of the day was serving customers directly. Team members were entrusted with taking orders, delivering meals and spending time interacting with patrons who were experiencing homelessness or other forms of hardship.
What quickly became apparent was that the experience wasn’t just about providing a meal. It was about creating a sense of dignity, respect and normalcy. By taking someone’s order, asking for their name and addressing them personally when their meal was ready, we were participating in an interaction many people take for granted. For a moment, they weren’t defined by their circumstances. They were simply a customer enjoying breakfast at a café.
In a world where people experiencing homelessness can often feel invisible, these simple interactions matter. A smile, a conversation and the use of a first name helps acknowledge a person’s humanity and reminds them that they are seen. For many of our team members, this was one of the most powerful lessons from the day. It reinforced the idea that genuine connection and respect can have a lasting impact, even in the briefest encounters.
Community in Action
Our EPIC value of Community is about creating positive change beyond the work we do for our customers. Volunteering at Magpie Nest Café was a practical demonstration of that commitment. By stepping outside our normal roles and dedicating time to support a community organisation, we were able to contribute to something bigger than ourselves.
The day also reflected our values of Ethics and Passion. Ethics in treating every person with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances. Passion in giving our time and energy to support a cause that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
A Humbling Experience
The EBS team left the café feeling grateful, humbled and inspired. While our contribution was only one day, the experience highlighted the importance of community support and the role each of us can play in helping others feel valued and connected.
We would like to thank the team at The Salvation Army Project 614 and Magpie Nest Café for welcoming us and allowing us to be part of their work for the day. It was a privilege to serve alongside you, and an experience that will stay with us for a long time.
At EBS, we believe technology can help organisations make a difference. Just as importantly, we believe people can too. This volunteer day was a reminder that some of the most meaningful impacts come not through systems or processes, but through kindness, empathy and taking the time to truly see another person.
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Terri McKinnon is Marketing Manager at Evolution Business Systems (EBS), leading the company’s marketing, communications, and customer engagement strategy. She is passionate about strengthening the EBS brand and building meaningful connections across customers, partners, and the wider business community.