AT just 12 years of age, Vincent Pettinicchio has already helped nearly 4000 people in need.
When he was seven, he was experiencing bullying.
To help, his mum told him to think of doing something to support others in need and Vincent’s Project for the Homeless was born.
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READ NOWInspired by seeing people living on the streets of Perth, the Kallaroo youngster started putting together packs of toiletries and comfort items for them.
This year, the project expanded at his school, Sacred Heart College, with parents, volunteers and students jumping on board for a two-day packing event.
He also had 18 other schools from around Perth contributing and has gained ongoing support from a number of major corporations.
Vincent also uses his spare time to speak at different parishes, rotary clubs, corporate events and schools to raise awareness about the homeless.
His 10-year plan is to help 14,000 people, which was estimated number of homeless people when he started in 2013. So far he has helped 3960.
Today he was named as one of 24 finalists for the 2017 WA Youth Awards.
These awards recognise the achievements and contributions of young West Australians aged 12 to 25, as well as organisations that work with and support WA youth.
Youth Minister Peter Tinley said the calibre of this year’s finalist, which also includes eight organisation, was “truly outstanding”.
“These young people are representative of the diversity of WA’s young people and the ways in which they contribute to building vibrant communities,” he said.
“Many of these young people have overcome extremely challenging situations and exemplify the qualities of resilience, determination and perseverance that our future generations hold.”
Joondalup-based Youth Futures WA is also a finalist.
The charity of 30 years aims to empower young people to overcome their issues through homelessness, education and support programs.
The awards will be announced at the State Theatre Centre on October 12.
Most Outstanding Youth Worker Award finalists Lynn Crasto – Hamilton Hill Alex Arpino – East Perth Courtney Marie Fare – Seville Grove Kristin Briggs – Caversham
Participate Award finalists Vincent Pettinicchio – Kallaroo Jai Castle – Wembley Allee Edith Bartlett – Spalding Robert Walker – Kalgoorlie
Community Leadership Award finalists Sophie Stewart – Burswood Angel Chen – Peppermint Grove Wil Massara – Collie Matthew Bill – Swan View
Innovation for a Sustainable Future Award finalists Lily Purser and Alyssa Wong – Shenton Park Shay Dowley – Lathlain Isabella Taylor – South Perth Emily Miller – Beverley
Positive Achievement Award finalists Joelle Chen – Morley Areesha Ateeq – Leederville Habiba Asim – Huntingdale Cory Payne – New Norcia
Cultural Endeavours Award finalists Georgia Foulkes-Taylor – South Perth Josten Myburgh – Joondanna Jackson Used – Nedlands
Organisational Achievement Award Large Organisation finalists Street Connect, Anglicare WA Youth Futures WA Curtin AHEAD Program Warnbro Community High School
Organisational Achievement Award Small Organisation finalists Midwest Charity Begins at Home Inc – Youth Millennium Kids Perth Inner City Youth Service Leading Youth Forward