Last week was National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest celebration of volunteering from 15 – 21 May 2023! The theme for 2023 was The Change Makers, which Volunteering Australia defines as ‘celebrating the powerful impact volunteers make supporting individuals, communities and the nation.’
In the lead up to the week, we asked our community via a poll, ‘Why do you volunteer?’ An exercise in curiosity, we wanted to stimulate thought and conversation, as well as raise awareness as to the important role volunteers play. Volunteers’ dedication and selflessness changes lives; and their vital role should be recognised.
Here are the results:
Unsurprisingly, a few participants chose more than one answer, because a person’s why is not that simple. There is nuance to someone’s decision to volunteer. It can be as much about helping the self —making friends, learning new skills, and promoting a sense of personal belonging—as it is about the other or the community—doing the work, supporting a cause, and making a tangible difference.
You may be someone with a whole lifetime of experience, reflecting on the awesome contributions you have made, and the connections you have forged; or you may be just getting started in your journey. Wherever you land, you can be assured of the knowledge that you are part of a millions-strong community of volunteers across Australia who drive change; and support the people and causes that matter to us.
Does our list resonate with you, or do you have a why that’s not listed? Or perhaps an awesome volunteering story about someone that you’re keen to celebrate? Please share your thoughts below. We would love to hear from you!
And if you’d like to check out what Team Gembridge did on a recent volunteer day, check out the blog here.
