He is the founder of the Youth of the Streets (YOTS) program, which has spurned youth outreach facilities for homeless youth in several communities and five schools of excellence including the Matthew Hogan School at Canyonleigh.

While Fr Riley is not one to sing his own praises, his efforts have not gone unnoticed on both a national and international level.

He was recently honoured with the Lions International Humanitarian of the Year Award presented in the United States.

The prestigious accolade ranks him alongside several renowned people who have dedicated their life to humanitarian work including Mother Teresa.

Humbled by the award, Fr Riley said he hoped it would draw greater awareness to the Lions organisation “which does great work in the community every day”.

“Personally awards mean little to me although some believe they are a sign of greatness,” he said.

“For me, true greatness is living a life that is aligned to good values and we can all achieve that true greatness.

“This includes values of integrity, service, commitment, compassion, fairness and a celebration of diversity.”

Learn more about the work of Fr Riley and his ongoing commitment to troubled and homeless youth in a two part feature beginning today.