Vote for Ben Harvey: Turning Adversity into Action for Young People with Disability

At Youngcare, we are fortunate to work alongside people who dedicate their lives to creating positive change. One of those people is Ben Harvey, our Community Fundraising Coordinator, who has been named a finalist in the Westfield Local Hero program.

Winning means $20,000 for Youngcare, so please vote for Ben to help make a brighter future for young people with disabilities. Click here to vote for Ben.

Passion Shaped by Lived Experience

In 2003, a spinal cord injury sustained during a rugby game left Ben paralysed. Instead of letting his disability limit his future, Ben transformed his experience into a powerful force for good.

Today, he is a passionate advocate, fundraiser, keynote speaker and community leader who works tirelessly to improve the lives of Australians living with complex and permanent disability.

Creating Change Across the Community

As Youngcare’s Community Fundraising Coordinator, Ben spends much of his time speaking at schools, community events and workplaces across the Gold Coast. Through honest conversations and powerful storytelling, he helps young people better understand disability, inclusion and empathy.

Whether he’s presenting to students, speaking on podcasts, appearing on radio, or sharing his experiences on stage, Ben is always looking for opportunities to educate, inspire and create a more inclusive community.

Throughout his career, Ben has helped raise more than $400,000 for charities and young people with complex and permanent disabilities, ensuring vital support reaches those who need it most.

What Winning Would Mean

If Ben is selected as a Westfield Local Hero, the grant funding will directly support Youngcare’s expanding school engagement program.

The funding would help deliver:

• Disability awareness and inclusion workshops
• Student leadership activities
• Community engagement events
• Programs that foster empathy, understanding and social inclusion

These initiatives will empower young people to become future leaders who value diversity and help create communities where everyone belongs.

Help Ben Make an Even Bigger Impact

By voting for Ben, you’re not only recognising his remarkable contribution to the community. You’re helping Youngcare continue its mission of supporting young people with complex and permanent disabilities and creating a future where every person has the opportunity to live with dignity, independence and choice.

Vote for Ben today and help turn his passion into even greater impact for our community. Click here to vote for Ben.