A WOMAN who transforms the lives of at-risk children has been named Lake Macquarie City Council’s Citizen of the Year.
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Geraldine Moran, of Redhead, is the chief executive officer, founder and driving force behind Centre For Hope.
It’s a not-for-profit organisation that supports disadvantaged local children who perhaps aren’t receiving the help they need from existing programs.
Mayor Jodie Harrison announced the winners of the 2016 Australia Day Awards at a ceremony in the council chambers on Monday night.
“We are very proud to recognise Geraldine as an outstanding citizen of Lake Macquarie City and for the work she does to help marginalised children, through Centre for Hope,” Cr Harrison said.
“Geraldine saw a need to help young people who are not otherwise captured or supported by government services, but who are struggling from the impacts of their families’ financial pressures, mental illness, abuse, and drug- and alcohol-related issues.”
Cr Harrison said the Centre for Hope was unique because it provided each young person with a coach and mentor.
“Having two people dedicated to each young person’s wellbeing, and listening without prejudice means the children can express themselves, be heard and be connected with the right services and support,” she said.
“Since establishing the not-for-profit organisation in 2011, Geraldine has gone on to create some high-impact programs such as Wheels for Hope, the Drop In Centre at Lake Macquarie Shopping Centre, a homework centre at Windale Library, and a program called Supporting Families.
“Geraldine is a truly remarkable Australian and we are very proud that she has based herself and her work in Lake Macquarie City.”
Geraldine is a truly remarkable Australian, and we are very proud that she has based herself and her work in Lake Macquarie City
- - Mayor Jodie Harrison
The Young Citizen of the Year award was shared by Bright Minds Project member Gemma Morgan, and Lake Macquarie’s representative at the last two YMCA NSW Youth Parliaments, Sophia Castro.
Volunteer of the Year was Nigel McDonnel, of Blacksmiths Beach Dunecare.
Community Group of the Year was Redhead Sustainable Neighbourhood Group.
And Community Event of the Year was the Old Waste New Art project, run by West Wallsend District Sustainable Neighbourhood Group.
