Volunteers make a huge difference

VOLUNTEERS enrich the lives of others in so many different ways.

They support our sporting clubs, coach junior teams and act as mentors and role models for young people.

They collect and distribute food and provide essential support for those in need.

They care for injured wildlife and abandoned pets.

They pick up litter to keep our parks and streets clean, and protect our native habitats and stunning natural environments.

They support our veterans, newly-arrived immigrants and older residents and make them feel valued.

They work at our libraries, hospitals, schools and community centres, and act as tour guides and founts of knowledge for visitors to our region.

They raise money for great causes – whether through organising events, applying for grants or simply cooking snags at a market or a local hardware store.

These are just a few of the ways thousands of volunteers make a profound impact across Greater Geelong.

According to the latest Census, approximately 20 per cent of Greater Geelong residents volunteer – that’s one in five people selflessly dedicating their time to help others.

More than 300 of these volunteers are working tirelessly in programs coordinated by the City of Greater Geelong.

These dedicated individuals include tour guides helping visitors to experience all our city has to offer, mentor drivers helping learners without access to a car or a supervising driver get their 120 hours, and Geelong Study Ambassadors, who support international students.

Among these volunteers is Norma, who has generously shared her time and passion at the National Wool Museum for 37 years, connecting visitors with stories that shaped our region’s rich history.

Over the years, Norma has enjoyed welcoming people from across the globe, sharing her knowledge of Geelong and growing her own understanding of the world.

Norma is an example of why so many people choose to volunteer – she loves helping others and catching up with likeminded volunteers.

Like so many who volunteer, Norma probably gets as much out of it as those whose lives she enriches.

On Wednesday I attended several events as part of National Volunteer Week and had the privilege of meeting people like Norma.

These volunteers are essential in keeping our community connected and thriving, and we are so grateful and proud of the contribution they make for so many people across Greater Geelong

I encourage anyone wanting to contribute to their community to give volunteering a go.

Volunteering builds lifelong friendships, creates a sense of belonging and purpose, and can be a great way to learn new skills.

Anyone can volunteer – no matter your age, background or ability, there is always a place where you can make a positive difference in your community.

To learn more about volunteering at the City of Greater Geelong, head to geelong.link/Volunteer.

Cr Stretch Kontelj

Mayor,

City of Greater Geelong