Nillumbik Shire Council is celebrating today's International Volunteer Day by welcoming back hundreds of volunteers following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
The theme of this year's International Volunteer Day is Together We Can, which is particularly relevant as the Nillumbik community starts on the road to recovery.
Nillumbik Council has more than 450 volunteers who assist in a variety of areas including community transport, caring for our bushland parks and reserves, mentoring learning drivers through our TAC L2P program, family support, digital mentoring, helping at Edendale Community Environment Farm and much more.
There are also many more volunteers who donate their time to other community organisations across the Shire. About a quarter of Nillumbik residents are involved in some form of volunteering in a normal year.
COVID-19 resulted in Council's 11 volunteer programs being suspended in March, but we are thrilled many of our volunteers are now making a 'COVID-safe' return.
Nillumbik Mayor Peter Perkins said volunteering in Nillumbik had never been so important and he thanked those who so generously contributed through both Council's programs and other community groups.
"One thing we have seen during the pandemic is the many small acts of kindness, residents looking out for their neighbours, supporting the vulnerable and those in need," Cr Perkins said.
"A whole new generation of people have started to get involved in their community and have seen what a positive impact they can have. "We are hoping to help more people enjoy the benefits of volunteering through a new local volunteer resource hub servicing Nillumbik."
The new DVCS Volunteers Hub, a partnership between Diamond Valley Community Support and Nillumbik and Banyule councils, can assist those wanting to volunteer find their ideal role, matching skills, experience and interests to suitable positions with a wide variety of organisations.
Those looking to volunteer can go to the Hub's online portal dvcsvolunteershub.com.au
