Got Your Back Sista volunteer Jan Bynon is this year's Westfield Local Hero and winner of $20,000 for her charity.
And deservedly so.
As one of Got Your Back Sista's longest-serving volunteers, Ms Bynon has supported hundreds of women and children who have escaped domestic violence, helping them to rebuild their lives. She volunteers in the op-shop, helps with fundraising events and provides essentials to those in need.
The $20,000 grant will be used to boost five Got Your Back Sista programs including work readiness, financial goal-setting and emotional healing.
Finalists Moira Farley, of Hunter Memorial Garden, and Ruth Mitchell, of PCYC Newcastle, each received a $5000 grant.
Ms Farley has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families experiencing grief as a bereavement counsellor for Red Nose.
Ms Mitchell has dedicated close to 50 years to supporting family and youth resilience through her volunteer work at PCYC Newcastle. Her commitment has positively impacted at-risk youth, helping them avoid antisocial behaviour and the justice system.
Now in its seventh year, the Westfield Local Heroes program recognises and celebrates the individuals and organisations dedicated to their communities and environment.
This year, Westfield is awarding 126 grants across Australia and New Zealand through the Westfield Local Heroes program, totalling $1.25 million. Since its inception in 2018, the program has contributed $8.6 million to over 860 community organisations.
A record number of public votes were cast this year: 71,500.
Ms Bynon was surprised when her name was called out as this year's winner.
"Both Ruth and Moira were very impressive. All three finalists were involved with helping children, which I thought was great," she told the Newcastle Herald.
"I love children. They are our future and I think we should invest heavily in making sure they have every possibility."
Ms Bynon is an ambassador for HMRI, volunteers at local courts on a Monday, and talks to people about how to prevent strokes ("My Dad passed away from a stroke and when he died Stroke Foundation were just so wonderful that I wanted to give back").
She has 10 grandchildren.
