On volunteering
Many GLBT and mainstream community organisations rely on volunteers to enhance and expand services offered. Many organisations, ACON included, came into being through volunteers’ efforts. National Volunteer Week is celebrated from 11 to 17 May.
Are you a volunteer? Do you work alongside volunteers? How will your organisation acknowledge volunteers’ efforts?
On Thursday 14 May Lismore’s Community Volunteer Expo will be held at City Hall. This is a fun day with more than 40 community organisations gathering together in a market atmosphere to inform potential volunteers of their organisations’ aims and work. More information is available from Volunteering Northern Rivers 6621 73967 or via Facebook on the Lismore Community Volunteer Expo page.
Volunteering is great for anyone but it may be particularly useful if you’re recovering from illness, dealing with ongoing health issues or if you have been away from the workforce for any time. It is a way of dipping your toe back in.
For people who are isolated, either socially or geographically, volunteering can act as a connection point with individuals and your local community. Numerous studies have found people who volunteer are happier and healthier than those who do not.
Volunteering is nourishing -˜soul food’ and the Northern Rivers is awash with volunteering opportunities.
Tropical Fruits is volunteer-driven and has volunteer opportunities within events and administration.
Their New Year’s Eve parties are largely organised by volunteers. Contact Tropical Fruits on 6622 6440
ACON in Lismore has volunteers who work in reception, fundraising, GLBT education and positive health promotion. Contact Sioux on 6622 1555. Other opportunities available include theatre, art, tourism, conservation and welfare. Contact 6621 7397.
Now for some advance notice-¦ As a way of thanking our dedicated volunteers ACON will host a Devonshire tea in Lismore on Friday 19 June.
info: For information about groups, services, organisations or community events in the Northern Rivers, you can contact Sioux Harrison at ACON on 6622 1555 or [email protected].
Sioux Harrison is administration and volunteer officer for ACON Northern Rivers.
