At Austinvilla Estate, we believe in giving back to our community and supporting causes that make a tangible difference. That’s why we are proud to donate our recycling bottles to 10 Cent Tom, a nonprofit organization founded by the inspiring Tom, affectionately known as “10 Cent Tom.”
Meet Tom: An Inspirational Journey
Hi, I’m Tom! But you may know me as 10 Cent Tom. I have an intellectual impairment and was diagnosed with severe scoliosis at the age of 15. Thanks to that scoliosis, I had to undergo surgery and got my spine upgraded with two titanium rods. And if you’ve met me, you’ll know without a doubt that it has only made me stronger!
A few years ago, I started collecting 10c recyclables from around my neighbourhood. In the beginning, I loved being able to get to know my neighbours and make new friends with awesome people, all while earning a bit of pocket money.
Discovering a Passion for Recycling
I quickly discovered my passion for recycling, enjoying the challenge and adventure of helping the environment while connecting with my community. Then, around 2020, COVID happened.
Like a lot of Australians, I experienced some setbacks due to COVID, including the loss of a traineeship I’d been working hard to get. On the flip side, this gave me more time to not only pursue my passion – but also turn it into a business.
Now? Well, I’ve gone from making pocket money to starting my own nonprofit: 10 Cent Tom Limited. With the help of my family and my amazing community of supporters and container collectors, I’m working towards having my own 10 Cent Tom depot that employs other people like me – one 10c container at a time!
Austinvilla Estate’s Commitment to 10 Cent Tom
At Austinvilla Estate, we are committed to supporting Tom’s mission and contributing to his success. By donating our recyclable bottles, we not only help the environment but also support Tom’s dream of creating a sustainable business that provides employment opportunities for others with similar challenges.
Our partnership with 10 Cent Tom is more than just a charitable contribution; it is a testament to our belief in the power of community, sustainability, and perseverance. We encourage everyone to join us in supporting this incredible cause. Together, we can make a difference, one 10c container at a time.
Let’s do it together!