COLES Sturt Mall store manager Jason Bortolazzo has been recognised by the company as the region's Community Hero in recognition of his contribution to the community.
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Mr Bortolazzo has been singled out as part of a campaign by the company to highlight its team members passionate about helping others.
He has been an active member of the Rural Fire Service for more than 12 years and helped to fight the bushfires that ravaged the Blue Mountains in September last year.
Mr Bortolazzo's charity work has seen him raise $2500 for Wagga's Ronald McDonald House in the past year.
Coles regional manager John McKay said Mr Bortolazzo had made a big difference to the community.
"Jason's contribution to the community has been nothing short of amazing," he said.
"Coles has played a role in Australian communities for 100 years and as part of our centenary celebrations we wanted to recognise our team members who are so dedicated to giving back to their communities."
As part of the award, Mr Bortolazzo was given $300 in gift cards by Coles and 40 hours of free work time to continue to support community organisations during paid work time.
Mr Bortolazzo said he was honoured to receive the award.
"I have always been passionate about supporting local communities and charities alike," he said.
"We all need to try and look after those less fortunate than ourselves and it's great that I now have more free time to be able to do so."
He will now be considered for the company's state award alongside other regional winners.