Volunteering Minister Mick Murray has today presented a Lotterywest grant of $345,000 to Volunteering WA.
The funding will enable Volunteering WA to re-engage, remobilise and attract volunteers across Western Australia as part of the State's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
All the State's volunteer-involving organisations were challenged earlier this year as part of the COVID-19 response, with the cessation of non-essential services due to tight restrictions on activities.
The campaign will promote volunteering for social connection to help build a stronger and more resilient community and will run State-wide.
The funding will also equip existing volunteer organisations to engage with new and returning volunteers through recruitment and training, including measures to ensure volunteers remain COVID-safe.
As stated by Volunteering Minister Mick Murray:
"Volunteering creates opportunities for the whole community to come together, enhance community connection and strengthen social capital.
"With restrictions easing, it's a perfect time for volunteers to re-engage - and for new volunteers to step forward.
"People who volunteer experience better mental and physical wellbeing, a stronger sense of community and a greater sense of purpose.
"For every $1 invested in volunteering, $4.50 is returned to the community - meaning Western Australian communities will reap the rewards of this Lotterywest grant."
As stated by CEO of Volunteering WA Tina Williams:
"These programs demonstrate the value volunteers bring to our community and ensure we future-proof the volunteering sector following the disruption and uncertainty brought about by COVID-19.
"An investment in volunteering is an investment in community cohesion, and we look forward to playing a part in rebuilding WA."
