How Glenn Smith has helped raise more than $400,000 to help those in need

WHENEVER he hears of someone, specially a child, in need of medical help, Glenn Smith puts up his hand. The Pride of Australia nominee and his wife have raised $400,000 over 10 years.

Rouse Hill Renegades handing out presents to patients in the Commercial Travellers Ward at The Children's Hospital at Westmead.

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WHENEVER he hears of someone, specially a child, in need of medical help, Glenn Smith puts up his hand.

He can’t help but help those in need and in the process has helped raise close to half a million dollars since 2004.

The 50s-something Kellyville Ridge local, along with his wife Joanna, are well known in the area and beyond for their remarkable fundraising efforts for more than a decade.

Mr Smith is also a former sportsman who has helped start two of the leading clubs in the Hills — the Rouse Hill Rams and the Rouse Hill Renegades.

Rouse Hill Renegades present a $10,000 cheque to The Children's Hospital at Westmead's Fiona Nelson, left, at Ettamogah Pub in 2014: From left: David Smart, Glenn Smith, Lindsay Dodds, Jim Taggert, James Armstrong, Simon Robinson (Ettamogagh) and Russell Smith (seated)

Mr Smith has been nominated for the Pride of Australia Medal for his charity work, with The Children’s Hospital at Westmead being one of his major beneficiaries.

Mr Smith, who credits his wife Joanne as one of the main reasons for their successful fundraising events, said helping others in need is something anyone can do.

“Most of us don’t do this for any recognition as we just want to help people,” Mr Smith said.

“You realise how lucky we are and, while people have busy lives, we need to step back and realise that some of the problems we face are minor compared to others.

“I don’t think I could have done much of the fundraising without my wife Joanne’s help while there are also numerous individuals who come forward to support us.”

Rouse Hill Renegades’ Santa hands over a present to Kye Wilson at the ward.

Mr Smith also enjoys playing Santa Claus during his clubs’ annual visit to the Commercial Travellers Ward at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead to hand over gifts to the young patients.

“We first got involved with fundraising with the social club at The Ettamogah Hotel and our fundraising includes targeted ones for specific individuals who need special equipment and other stuff,” said Mr Smith, who runs a jumping castle business and works for a home builder.

“We have seen first hand the devastating effects on children with severe disabilities and their families and this is what motivates us to do more.

“I really wish we could do more.”

How to nominate someone

■ You can nominate someone who has inspired you through their dedication, initiative, courage and acts of charity. They can be a neighbour, friend, teammate, colleague or family member.

■ For more information and to nominate somebody visit prideofaustralia.com.au