From food banks to animal shelters, volunteers play an essential role in the success and sustainability of our local community organisations.
Volunteering is the backbone of our communities, with around two million, or 42.1 per cent, of Victorians over the age of 15 volunteering time and skills and contributing around 58.1 billion dollars per year to the Victorian economy.
But what is it that motivates people to give their time and energy to others without expecting anything in return?
Kim Boswell is the Lead Trainer and Facilitator at The Forever Agenda, a local consulting, facilitation and training service that supports not-for-profit organisations and their committees and boards to increase their income, reach and impact in their local communities.
Kim said the research shows that the reasons people choose to volunteer are varied and complex. Some individuals volunteer to give back to their community, while others do it to gain new skills or experiences, perhaps even to build their resumes.
For some, volunteering is a way to connect with others and build relationships, while for others, it is a way to make a positive impact on society. Whatever the individual reason, it is clear that volunteering benefits both the volunteer and the community as a whole.
“Volunteering can have a positive impact on an individual’s mental and physical health. Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and even improve heart health. Additionally, volunteering provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment, which can be particularly beneficial for those who may be struggling with isolation, disconnection, or depression. It is a powerful experience to give and one that is proven to have far-reaching and long-term benefits”, Kim said.
These benefits of volunteering extend beyond the individual and into the community. Volunteers provide essential services and support to organisations that rarely have the resources to operate without them. They also help to create a sense of community and connectedness that can be difficult to achieve otherwise.
So, what can you do to get involved in volunteering in your community? There are countless opportunities available, and many organisations are in desperate need of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month to spare, there is a volunteer opportunity that can fit into your schedule and align with your interests and requirements. These days there is also a wide variety of ways to engage in volunteering from remote skills-based roles to committee and governance roles and creative and hands-on roles there really is something to suit everyone.
To celebrate National Volunteering Week this year (15 – 21 May) Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association (EDRA) is hosting a volunteering expo at the Hills Hub, 400 Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Emerald on 20 May from 10am to 4pm. The expo will showcase the incredible work happening in community organisations and will feature over 20 local organisations that are achieving huge outcomes for the local community.
This year National Volunteer Week is running the “We are the Change Makers” campaign, celebrating the powerful impact volunteers make supporting individuals, communities and the nation. Together, we can strengthen our community and create a brighter future for us all.
