Western Bulldogs midfielder Tom Liberatore has been awarded the John Schultz Community Award for a record third time at the Charles Sutton Medal count on Wednesday evening.  

Known for his commitment to making an impact on the field, Liberatore has demonstrated an equal determination in having a positive impact off the field, primarily through the Youth programs of the Community Foundation.

Louise Perry, General Manager of the Community Foundation at the Western Bulldogs said that Tom's support had been a great enabler of the Foundation’s work.

"He approaches the young people in our programs with his trademark humility and has a knack for getting the best out of them just by being present and engaging them at their level,” Perry said.

Liberatore’s current studies in youth work equip him well to participate across the Community Foundation's programs.

Youth Leadership Project participant Makalya was ecstatic to hear that Liberatore won the John Schultz award.

"No-one deserves it more than him! He joins us every week, listens to what we have to say and helps us with ideas for our Impact Projects,” Makalya said.

“Tom making the time in his busy schedule to spend time with us is really special”.

The Community Foundation's Youth Leadership Project is aimed at equipping young people aged 13-17, guided by a structured curriculum evaluated by Victoria University.

Participants are provided with opportunities to make a meaningful contribution to their local community by undertaking an impact project that requires them to select community issues they are passionate about and plan, implement and deliver basic initiatives designed to address the problem.

Tom's contribution has also extended to the GOAL mentoring program, where he serves as a player-mentor for young Australians of an African culture background. He has also been involved in Nallei Jerring, the Community Foundation's program from young First Nations people.

Both programs undertake a range of workshop and social activities in a culturally safe setting, so that the particpancts can build confidence and be proud of their cultural identity – a key enabler in empowering them to realise their best.

As the Foundation continues to grow, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tom Liberatore for his invaluable contributions in nurturing our mission, impacting lives, and driving positive change throughout the community.

The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation provides life-changing programs from Melbourne’s inner-west through to Ballarat and beyond across three key streams of Health & Wellbeing, Youth and Diversity, proudly supported by major partner Worksafe Victoria.