Meet the compassionate individuals dedicated to ending homelessness in Brisbane.
Our Team - The Heart of Sheltered by Grace
At Sheltered by Grace, we're more than just a homeless shelter in Brisbane; we are a community united by a shared passion to provide support for homeless people. Every member of our team, from our dedicated co-founders to our passionate board members, plays a crucial role in transforming lives and offering hope where it is needed most.
We believe in the power of collective action and invite you to join us as we work towards solutions to end homelessness in Brisbane. Your support, whether through donating to homeless shelters like ours or volunteering your time, can make a world of difference. We are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve, and we invite you to join us in our mission.
SBG team of support workers
Jason and Lisa Loakes for BNI Midas presentation
SBG Director Lisa Loakes as a speaker
SBG happy clients
Our Values
We believe that solutions to end homelessness are multifaceted and require a holistic approach. Our core values guide our every action and decision, ensuring we provide effective homeless services while upholding the dignity and respect of every individual we serve. These principles guide our every action and decision, forming the bedrock of trust and respect upon which Sheltered by Grace is built:
Respect
For oneself, for others, and for the space we share, fostering an environment of dignity and understanding.
Integrity
We act with honesty, unwavering commitment, and a dedication to staying true to our word in all that we do.
Support
We offer a network of unwavering support – to our clients, staff, volunteers, the community, and society as a whole – we are all interconnected.
Compassion
Driven by empathy, we offer a listening ear, a helping hand, and a heart open to understanding and alleviating the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
Empowerment
We provide the tools for empowerment in choice, knowledge, opportunity, and behaviour, helping individuals reclaim their independence and self-worth.
Advocacy for Change
We raise our voices, both for ourselves and our clients, to advocate for systemic change and a future where homelessness is a challenge we overcome together.
Meet Our Co-Founders
Jason and Lisa feel called to use their giftings to help people who are less fortunate and to transform lives. Together, they have developed a housing model that does not rely on government funding. Their focus is ending homelessness through the building of community, and they are passionate about creating real change in the lives of those who need it.
This dedication to finding alternative solutions and creating lasting change is what makes Sheltered by Grace a unique and impactful organisation. Through their vision and commitment, they inspire both individual donors and corporate partnerships to join them in their mission to provide essential homeless services in Brisbane.
Jason Loakes
Co-Founder and Chair of the Board
Jason Loakes is the Co-Founder and Chair of the Board of Sheltered by Grace. With a foundational background in the construction industry, Jason also brings experience in sales, marketing, and government publishing. He has successfully managed several business ventures and undertaken extensive personal development, which has contributed to his strategic leadership approach.
Since co-founding Sheltered by Grace in 2010, Jason has played a central role not only in organisational development but also in frontline service delivery. For many years, he worked directly with clients in a hands-on social work capacity, providing support, mentorship, and practical assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction. His lived, daily engagement with clients has shaped a deep understanding of the systemic and personal challenges faced by those experiencing disadvantage.
Jason remains deeply committed to driving positive change across the homelessness and housing sector. His focus areas include fostering collaboration between organisations, advocating for policy and funding reform, and identifying and developing new sites to expand Sheltered by Grace’s impact.
Drawing on his construction expertise, Jason continues to ensure the delivery of innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable housing solutions. His leadership is underpinned by a strong belief in the power of purpose, dignity, and opportunity to transform lives.
Lisa Loakes
Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Lisa Loakes is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sheltered by Grace. With over two decades of experience spanning government, corporate, and nonprofit sectors, Lisa brings strategic leadership, deep operational expertise, and a strong commitment to social impact.
Prior to founding Sheltered by Grace in 2010, Lisa held senior roles in the Queensland Government across human resources, organisational development, and workforce strategy. Her public sector career culminated in Director-level appointments, where she led complex projects focused on capability development, cultural transformation, and workforce planning.
Lisa holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Commerce (Organisational Behaviour and HRM) from Griffith University, along with a Graduate Certificate in Business and a Graduate Certificate in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies from QUT. She also holds Associate Diplomas in Speech and Drama from both AMEB and Trinity College London.
As CEO, Lisa is responsible for strategic direction, governance, and organisational development. She has designed and implemented programs focused on mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma-informed care, and has played a key role in securing funding and forming partnerships to support Sheltered by Grace’s mission. Her leadership has driven expansion initiatives, innovative housing models, and sector-wide advocacy through initiatives such as the Homelessness Taskforce Australia.
Lisa is passionate about sustainable, purpose-driven solutions to homelessness and continues to work collaboratively with stakeholders to influence policy, raise awareness, and identify new opportunities for growth.
A Community of Hope for the Homeless in Brisbane
How Sheltered by Grace is Transforming Lives One Step at a Time
In this powerful and moving story, discover how Sheltered by Grace is transforming the lives of homeless men and women in Brisbane through faith, compassion, and community. With a mission to rebuild broken lives and restore family connections, this remarkable shelter provides 24-hour supported accommodation, offering everything from trauma recovery to life skills courses.
Watch how the power of love, faith, and generosity can create lasting change—one life at a time.
Our Board Members
We are fortunate to have a committed board with diverse professional backgrounds, all dedicated to guiding Sheltered by Grace toward a future where homelessness is a distant memory. Their combined experience and passion strengthen our ability to serve those in need and create a brighter future for our community.
Colette Gavet
We are delighted to welcome Colette Gavet to our Board of Directors at Sheltered by Grace. With over 30 years of experience in business management, Colette brings a diverse skill set and impressive record of accomplishment to our organisation.
Colette's career spans various sectors, including payroll and accounting, human resources, project management, and work health and safety. Her experience in both the corporate and non-profit sectors gives her a unique perspective on organisational management and strategic development. Her dedication to staff well-being and risk mitigation, evident in her previous roles, makes her an asset to Sheltered by Grace.
Colette's commitment to community service extends beyond her professional life. She is an active volunteer for various community projects and has participated in international aid missions. Her passion for helping others aligns perfectly with Sheltered by Grace's mission.
Glenn Rohde
Glenn Rohde, a successful entrepreneur with a strong background in the building industry, is a highly valued member of our Board. Starting his career in agriculture at an early age, Glenn's entrepreneurial spirit and drive have been evident throughout his career.
Transitioning to the building industry in 2000, Glenn gained extensive experience in home renovations, new buildings, and large-scale commercial projects. His expertise in concrete radar and cutting led him to consult on major construction projects, where he honed his skills in project management and cost-effectiveness.
Driven by a desire to make a positive impact on his community, Glenn sold his business in 2018 to focus on helping others. He obtained his building and pest inspection certification and founded Trimax Building Inspections, serving Brisbane and its surrounding areas. Glenn now brings his extensive building knowledge and passion for community service to Sheltered by Grace.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team, driven by compassion and a shared vision, works tirelessly to provide homeless services and support for homeless people in Brisbane.
Naje
Head Social Worker
With a heart dedicated to empowering others, Naje guides our clients on their journey to independence as our Head Social Worker.
Jojo
Administration Officer
Jojo is working closely with the team to ensure all behind-the-scenes operations run smoothly and efficiently. With a strong eye for detail and a heart for supporting others, Jojo helps keep the organisation’s backend work in great shape. Outside of work, Jojo loves the colour green and enjoys spending quality time with family.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join Our Mission of Hope.
At Sheltered by Grace, we believe in the power of community to create lasting change. There are many ways you can contribute to our mission of helping those experiencing homelessness in Brisbane. Whether you feel called to volunteer to help the homeless, are considering donating to the best charities to donate to, or want to explore corporate partnership opportunities, your support can have a significant impact on the lives of those we serve.
We invite you to join our community of compassionate individuals and become a part of something truly meaningful.
Discover Your Impact
Find Your Place in Our Community of Care
Corporate Sponsorship
Join us in making a tangible difference through corporate sponsorship, extending compassion, and fostering positive change within our community.
Our Projects
Join us in making a tangible difference in our lives by supporting projects for the homeless, from donating furniture to sponsoring a tiny home or helping cultivate our Syntropic Garden.
Our Programs
Our compassionate programs that help the homeless empower individuals to rebuild their lives through counselling, life skills training, and unwavering support.
Shedding Light on Our Mission. Trusted by the Community
