To celebrate National Volunteer Week, the City of Greater Bendigo has thanked over 400 of its volunteers with a special video and e-card message from the City of Greater Bendigo Mayor.
Mayor Cr Margaret O'Rourke said the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions meant volunteers were unable to come together to enjoy a traditional morning tea and celebrate National Volunteer Week.
"At this uncertain time, we feel that it is more important than ever to recognise the generous contribution of our region's volunteers," Cr O'Rourke said.
"We are so lucky to have such an amazing, large group of passionate volunteers, many of whom have enjoyed volunteering with us for many years.
"It seems very appropriate that this year's theme for National Volunteer Week 2020 is 'Changing Communities. Changing Lives.
"We couldn't do all that we do without the valuable contribution of our volunteers who give their time to help with a wide range of City activities that benefit our community."
To show the City's appreciation, the Mayor has sent a signed e-card to all volunteers with a special message and recorded a video to thank them for their dedication. The City will also run social media posts on Facebook and Instagram featuring some of the volunteers from a range of services during National Volunteer Week. Some volunteers are keeping connected to the City with online training and other activities while they are at home.
In normal times, the City's volunteers can dedicate approximately 2,500 hours of service per month or around 30,000 hours per year to help deliver important services.
"Volunteering helps to create a stronger, more connected and more resilient community. We really value our volunteers' who perform their roles over a range of services so I encourage you when we relaunch our volunteer programs to see what would be of interest to you."
Volunteers support the City across a range of services including:
- Home visiting program and Social Support Group
- Bandmates
- Bendigo Art Gallery and Post Office Gallery
- The Capital and Ulumbarra theatres
- Bendigo Easter Festival and Bendigo Writers Festival
- Bendigo and Heathcote Visitor Centres
- Yo Bendigo
- Early years' events
- Landcare and the environment
- Bendigo Animal Relief Centre (BARC)
The City also partners with other volunteer groups to deliver events and values the relationships that have developed over many years.
Anyone interested in volunteering when we relaunch our volunteer programs is encouraged to visit the City's website:
www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/About/Working-at-the-City-of-Greater-Bendigo/Become-a-volunteer
