HORSHAM youngster Ella Officer has been recognised for her outstanding efforts in making a positive difference in the world.
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Ella was a recipient of the Fred Hollows Humanity Award, which acknowledged her compassion, integrity and kindness.
She was nominated by her principal Andrea Cox of SS Michael and John’s Primary School who believed Ella’s charitable efforts should be in the spotlight.
The year six student has led two projects over the last year-and-a-half. Ella said the award was “encouraging” and made her feel proud.
Ella said her first big project was a hair chop for children suffering from cancer. She set herself a goal of $1600, but raised more than $4000 over an eight week period.
Ella said this project was inspired by Warracknabeal’s Linc Munro who lost his battle with cancer when he was five-years-old.
She said cutting her hair was a simple action that could make a big difference in another child’s life.
Ella had then set her sight on a new project where she asked people to donate their old glasses at Horsham’s Specsavers. The collection would be given to the Lions club who will recycle them to third world countries.
“I had recently got glasses for the first time and my mum got stronger ones. I could see her collection of frames growing bigger and just sitting there,” she said. “It got me thinking, what can we do with them and what can we do for the people who aren’t fortunate enough to afford glasses.”
Ella rallied the community and managed to collect and donate 1070 pairs of glasses.
While she does not have any new projects underway, Ella said she hoped to continue giving back to her community.
The Fred Hollows Foundation chairman John Brumby said the award highlighted inspirational students who are making a difference in their communities.
“Fred believed that Australians had an amazing ability to care for others and help those in need,” he said.
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