Anthony Lipec, a 42-year-old resident of St Albans, has turned his passion for recycling into a remarkable community initiative known as Anthony’s Cans.
Despite living with an intellectual disability, Anthony has been running this initiative for almost a year, demonstrating that determination and a positive outlook can overcome any challenge.
Anthony started Anthony’s Cans in November 2023, driven by his love for the environment and the desire to make a meaningful contribution to his community.
His recycling efforts go beyond just collecting cans and bottles; they embody his values of sustainability, community engagement, and giving back.
Through Anthony’s Cans, he offers a bottle and can collection service to residents in the north-west region of Melbourne, with the help of his dedicated support worker.
The process is simple but impactful. Anthony provides his clients with a bin or container to collect their recyclable cans and bottles.
Every week, fortnight, or month, he and his support worker visit these clients to empty the bins and take the recyclables to the local recycling depot.
Each can and bottle collected earns Anthony 10 cents, which he uses to support himself while donating a portion to a charity of his choice each month.
His chosen charities include Second Chance Animal Rescue, Foodbank, and Beyond Blue, reflecting his deep commitment to helping both people and animals in need.
For Anthony, recycling is more than just a task; it’s an opportunity to connect with his community, meet new people, and stay active.
His hobbies, including lawn bowls, pool, checkers, and tenpin bowling, showcase his love for staying engaged and active.
Anthony’s enthusiasm for recycling and his dedication to his community make him a local hero. His story is a testament to how a simple idea, fueled by passion and commitment, can bring about positive change.
If you’re interested in joining Anthony in his mission to recycle and support worthy causes, you can reach out to him via SMS at 0437 339 496 for more information.
“Together, we can make a difference, one can at a time,” he said.
