Founded by Essendon resident Maria Rosa in July 2006, PIA Kids (Passion in Assisting Kids) has about 14 diverse committee members who share the
common goal of “giving back to the community”. Ms Rosa initiated the concept while working in the legal system and children’s court. “I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives and to give them some joy and happiness and perhaps heighten their quality of life,” she said. Last year, the group focused on raising money for children with Down syndrome and autism and donated equipment to the Western Autistic School in Niddrie. This year’s effort will be geared towards children suffering mental illness. Maribyrnong mother Maria Butera, whose son Joseph, 24, has an intellectual disability and controlled epilepsy, joined PIA Kids late last year. She said her role with the volunteer organisation had helped her better deal with her own situation.
“I think it’s helped me to realise that there are other kids out there with more problems than Joseph,” she said.