Advocating for Tasmania's most vulnerable is not a job John Stuart takes lightly.
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But after 11 years as Launceston Benevolent Society's chief executive officer, Mr Stuart has moved on.
The non-profit organisation has been driving positive social change in Tasmania since 1834.
RELATED: Winter Relief Appeal 2019
For Mr Stuart, who came to the organisation in need of work, the opportunity to help those less fortunate quickly became more than just a job.
"I came from a background of having my own business and then working for ANZ," he said.
"Coming to the Benevolent Society, I really just needed a job to help pay the bills.
"But it became more than that, and it really has been very enjoyable over the years.
"I would like to thank everyone for that opportunity and for the support over the years."
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Providing emergency relief and support to people in need, Mr Stuart said it wasn't always an easy job to get done.
But looking back on his time with the organisation, he said knowing the difference even a small gesture could make was what kept him going.
"It's not necessarily a pressured job, but it always plays on your mind," he said.
"You might be dealing with people with mental illness, people with drug and alcohol problems.
"Something like domestic violence is a huge problem in our community.
"Just to be able to support people and somehow give them - even if it's only a $50 voucher - it means they don't have to plead or beg to get it from other areas."
The Benevolent Society is one of four Launceston charities that benefit from The Examiner's Winter Relief appeal.
Now in its 61st year, Mr Stuart said the continued generosity of the community always managed to surprise him - year after year.
"I always think the support through initiates like Winter Relief - it is a huge benefit to all the agencies," he said.
"Over the years we have worked together to make the community a better place.
"It is the funding that helps all agencies provide services they might not have otherwise been able to.
"That makes all the difference."
Mr Stuart said he would continue to advocate for those less fortunate in the community.
"I've really enjoyed the work and if I can continue to help people in the community, I will."
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