International Volunteer Day 2020 - Together We Can Through Volunteering

05/12/2020

As the world celebrates International Volunteer Day on Saturday 5 December, Volunteering WA brought together hundreds of volunteers to reflect on a year that saw both unprecedented challenges and inspirational volunteer effort. 

Western Australia’s volunteering sector celebrated the day with the annual International Volunteer Day Garden Party, with a formal address from The Honorable Kim Beazley AC Governor of Western Australia (and esteemed Patron of Volunteering WA); The Honorable Mick Murray MLA, Minister for Volunteering; and Michelle Andrews, Director General at the Department of Communities.

With many organisations and volunteer programs forced to pause their programs during COVID restrictions, thousands of volunteers stepped up to the front lines, providing both informal and formal essential services to the Western Australian community.

Whether it was collecting groceries for vulnerable neighbours or connecting to aged care residents or migrant students via ZOOM, volunteers across the State found ways to help those most in need during the pandemic.

Tina Williams, CEO of Volunteering WA:

 “2020 has been an unimaginable year that challenged the volunteering sector on all fronts, and forced organisations to adapt virtually overnight”.

 “Volunteering covers almost every sector in our state. Sporting and conservation groups were forced to pause as we socially distanced, care facilities suspended face-to-face volunteer programs that supported their residents, and op shops closed their doors for months”.

 “It has been a year that forced us to ‘keep our distance’, but at the same time, also experience true connection and community like never before”.

 “I have witnessed more resilience and strength from the Western Australian volunteer community than I have ever seen before, and I could not be more proud.”  

 

Media Enquiries:
Holly Hazel
Manager Marketing and Communications | Volunteering WA
P: 9482 4304
Email