Three North Shore community members have been announced as finalists in the Westfield Local Heroes program. Fran Signorelli was shortlisted for her work with charity Hope in A Suitcase, along with Chatswood Roseville Rotary member John Hartley, and Rachel Krippner, who works with Lifeline in Willoughby.
Now in its eighth year, the Westfield Local Heroes program recognises and celebrates individuals and organisations dedicated to their communities by shining a spotlight on them and their work.
Westfield Chatswood will award one hero a $20,000 grant to the group or organisation they represent, and each of the two finalists will receive a $5,000 grant, further enabling their valuable work for the community.
Fran Signorelli works in Willoughby with Hope in a Suitcase, which provides children displaced from their homes with suitcases filled with everyday items such as clothes, toiletries, and toys. If Fran wins the prize, the money will fund packed suitcases for around 80 children and young adults.
John Hartley has volunteered with the Rotary Club of Chatswood Roseville for 34 years, supporting community projects for children, young people, the elderly, and others in need. If John is successful, the funds will go towards many local projects, including a refuge for women and homeless youth and the Christmas ‘Tree of Joy’.
Rachel Krippner is a Lifeline community engagement manager in Willoughby, and creates innovative, accessible mental health services to reach overlooked groups. She also fosters safe spaces for crisis support through projects like Connect Library Hubs. Her work has supported thousands, as she aims to play her part in preventing suicide and empowering people to seek help. If Rachel is successful, the grant will support the Connect Hub, paying for volunteer training, phone costs and marketing the service.
