By Parker McKenzie
Sophie Ashdowne spends multiple days a week volunteering at Bayswater-based not-for-profit Pinchapoo – an effort which has earned her the title of Westfield Knox’s Local Hero, and the charity $20,000 towards distributing personal hygiene products to disadvantaged people.
Sophie, who lives with Down syndrome and was also Knox Young Citizen of the Year, spends multiple days a week at Pinchapoo, assembling packs for distribution to those in need.
She said she was excited to support the charity and her “hero” Kate Austin, the CEO of Pinchapoo.
“I must say Kate is so beautiful,” she said.
“I like to put the stickers on the boxes and create them.”
While Sophie is still in school completing year 11, she spends two days a week — and sometimes more during the holidays — at Pinchapoo.
Kate said Sophie has had an amazing journey in winning the Knox local Heroes program, which was decided by an online vote, with a huge amount of support from the people around her.
“Putting aside the funding for a moment, I’m more excited for Sophie and being able to have a platform to talk about the benefits to an organization and business through greater inclusion and diversity in the workplace,” she said.
“Making sure that people have somewhere to belong and contributing in their own capacity, I love that everyone brings something different to the table.”
The charity advocates for access to hygiene products for both men and women, working towards ensuring every Australian has access to essential products.
Scentre Group national community experience manager Pam Wilson said she congratulates all the recipients and those who voted for their 2022 Westfield Local Heroes.
“As we celebrate our fifth year of the Westfield Local Heroes program, we are once again overwhelmed by the inspiring nominations this year,” she said.
“Through the success of the program, we are proud to be able to continue to recognise and reward everyday people doing extraordinary work in our communities.”
Kim Hallworth from Southern Cross Kids Camp Knox and Darren Hill from Knox Youth each received a $5000 grant after being nominated for the program.
Kate said she’d celebrate with Sophie, who recently turned 18, by having a glass of champagne.
“One-third of the volunteer workforce is individuals with special needs, we’re very passionate about having a job at someone’s level,” she said.
“Everybody in the community has got something to contribute and that’s why we’re so proud of Sophie.”
To find out more about Pinchapoo, visit www.pinchapoo.org.au
