St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is recognising National Volunteer Week as an opportunity to celebrate the immense contribution made by its members and volunteers.
The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘Connecting Communities’ - something Del Butler has been doing as a Vinnies volunteer in Forbes for 45 years now.
“We didn’t get the help that we probably needed when we were growing up and just had to do the best that we could," Del said.
"I don’t need anything now and get more pleasure from helping other people.
"It is lovely when I am able to put a smile on someone’s face.”
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Del was one of a number of Forbes Vinnies volunteers who were this week formally thanked for their service to our community.
Emma Francis and Beverley Parsons have each given 25 years of service; Cheryl Shirvington and Janice Whittaker 20 years each.
Ann Davis, Colleen Dean, Lynette Elliott, Dietmar Franke, John Gorton and Sandra Priest were all recognised for 15 years service.
Ten years has been given by Dianne Larson and Val McMahon; five years by Albert Borg, Elen Brown, Dale Haynes, Rhonda Keane, Helen McGroder and Barbara Thomas.
Volunteering through Vinnies is a way to show care and help to others, Forbes conference president Helen Smith, our Senior Citizen of the Year, said.
"Giving assistance is a way for me to follow my faith," Helen said.
“Our celebration yesterday was an enjoyable get together and I thank everyone who volunteers with us and a special thank you to our service award recipients.”
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has a presence in close to 400 communities throughout NSW, providing volunteering opportunities through Vinnies Shops, specialist services and offering assistance to people facing hardship through its members.
This impact is made possible thanks to the efforts of:
• 6,300 volunteers supporting Vinnies Shops
• 1,700 volunteers giving their time at Vinnies services and programs
• 4,200 members based in local communities
“We’re able to positively impact so many lives each year because of the dedication and generosity of our members and volunteers,” said Kelly Morgan, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW West Regional Director.
“Across the West region, our members have supported 8,500 people over the last year, providing $775,000 in financial and material assistance.
“This level of support is only possible because of our members and volunteers.
“Our volunteers give so much of themselves to support local communities, but they also gain a lot from the experience by building connections and developing skills for the greater good.
“We’re always on the lookout for people who want to give back and join the Vinnies NSW community – whether it’s as a member, volunteering at a shop or service, there’s a place for you here."
According to Volunteering Australia, over six million Australians spend time volunteering across the nation, along with millions more who informally give back to their communities.
Research conducted by Volunteering Australia also found improved self-assessed psychological wellbeing, self-esteem, happiness, and satisfaction with life for people who volunteer.
