Is this your year to volunteer?

AUSTRALIA’s annual celebration of volunteering, National Volunteer Week, will be marked from 18-24 May.

The theme for 2026 is Your Year To Volunteer. The important roles volunteers play and the contributions they make will be honoured, while new volunteers will be sought to give back to their local area.

Volunteers are an essential part of community and neighbourhood houses.

“On National Volunteer Week, we proudly recognise not only the incredible volunteers at Heathcote Community House (HCH), but the many volunteers we see and work alongside right across our community,” Heathcote Community House executive officer Vicki Forde said.

“Their tireless contribution of time, skills and care is at the heart of everything we do.

“Across our many programs and events, it’s their generosity and commitment that allows us to support our community in meaningful and lasting ways.

“We celebrate and thank them all – quite simply, we couldn’t do what we do without them.”

Volunteers at HCH enjoy working in the garden, maintenance, facilitating classes, office duties and cooking.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact HCH on 5433 2820 or email [email protected]

There are many other volunteering opportunities available, from Meals on Wheels, SES and CFA, to op shops and schools.

Sandra Runagall volunteers with Meals on Wheels, the HCH walking group and Heathcote Ambulance Op Shop.

“When I moved to Heathcote last year with my husband, I only knew my sister and her family,” she said.

“Since I started volunteering, I have met so many wonderful people and I really feel like part of the community.

“I’ve made new friends, attend events and I’ve joined groups like the community house writing group and U3A.

“I would heartily recommend volunteering to everyone. You get back so much more than you give.”

So… why not make this year your year to volunteer? Just a few hours a week or month can make a difference.