Tom Liberatore's community efforts have again been recognised, with the Western Bulldogs midfielder nominated for the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award for the second year running.

Liberatore has been heavily involved in the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation's programs for a number of years and has been a strong advocate for community involvement at the Club.

This year's nomination is the result of his involvement with the opening and maintenance of the Lighthouse Café in Footscray, an initiative of The Salvation Army which is a partner of the Community Foundation.

Liberatore approached the Community Foundation earlier this year after noting the impact of homelessness in the Footscray area, asking how he could help.

When he was made aware of the Lighthouse Café proposal - intended as a welcoming space that would provide meals, connection and support for people experiencing homelessness - he threw himself into the project, donating food from his hospitality business as well as his own home-cooked meals.

Liberatore continues to volunteer his time at the café each week since it opened in May, and last week organised a 'Footy Extravaganza' at Mission Whitten Oval, where café patrons mingled with Bulldogs players over lunch at Western Grounds.

"Tom's commitment to the community goes far beyond what people see on game day," said Hannah Singleton, GM of the Community Foundation. 

"Across a wide range of programs and initiatives, he consistently shows up with genuine care, humility and a willingness to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. He understands the positive influence he can have and uses it to create opportunities for connection, belonging and hope. 

"We're incredibly proud to see Tom's contribution recognised through this nomination and grateful for the positive impact he continues to have across our community."

The Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award recognises the AFL player who best embodies the values of the Melbourne champion and former Demons president, highlighting their outstanding commitment to community service and leadership.

Liberatore has been nominated alongside Bailey Banfield (Fremantle) and Kysaiah Pickett (Melbourne) for this year's award, with the winner set to be announced during the broadcast of the 2026 Brownlow Medal.