Couzens pledges funds for volunteers

VOLUNTEERING Geelong will get a $100,000 grant to support its work if Labor retains power at the coming state election.

The independent not-for-profit organisation partners with several other groups and organisations across the Geelong region to deliver projects and programs to support people with specific needs.

Many of these programs are designed with Aboriginal Victorians, people with a disability and new migrants in mind.

If the party wins, Labor says the $100,000 capped grant would help Volunteering Geelong deliver a broader range of programs and activities, as well as to help it continue to be fully inclusive and accessible for those in the region.

Labor says it is “doing what matters” by “backing the important community organisations that help us all”.

Geelong Labor MP Christine Couzens made the election commitment last week.

“Volunteering Geelong is a vital service that is run by the community, for the community – and this funding will ensure that it can continue its great work,” she said.

“I’m proud of Labor’s track record of supporting volunteers to promote, support and strengthen community organisations to enhance the health and well-being for people within the region.

Volunteering Geelong chief executive officer Helen Hunter welcomed the commitment.

“Volunteering Geelong welcomes the investment of this election commitment from Christine Couzens MP and the Andrews Government,” she said.

“This recognizes the very real need of inclusive volunteering and to continue to increase participation in volunteering, which will further strengthen our local communities.”

Founded in 1998, Volunteering Geelong works with individuals, groups and organisations in our community to facilitate volunteering through:

Interviewing and training people interested in becoming a volunteer

Connecting people wishing to volunteer with other local not-for-profit groups and organisations looking for volunteer support

Supporting businesses and larger organisations seeking volunteer opportunities for staff development, and

Co-ordinating specific volunteer program to help build confidence and skills of vulnerable people from our community.

The organisation, as a volunteer resource centre, also advocate the importance of volunteers and volunteering within the municipalities of Greater Geelong, Golden Plains, Queenscliffe, Colac Otway and Surf Coast, and co-ordinates the annual Geelong Volunteer of the Year Awards.