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Flags will be flying for volunteers next week

By Latrobe City Council - 4th May 2005 - Back to News

A number of striking new flags with a burgundy ‘V’ will be seen flying above Latrobe City next week. Councils throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria are working in partnership with the Victorian Volunteer Resource Centres’ Network to fly the volunteering flag for National Volunteer Week celebrated 9 to 15 May 2005.

In Latrobe City, the flags will be seen flying proudly in Commercial Road Morwell opposite the corporate headquarters, and at Latrobe City’s Moe and Traralgon service centres.

Latrobe City Mayor, Cr Bruce Lougheed, said that within our own community we often take for granted the vital services provided by volunteers until one day we need them.

"These services include caring for the aged and socially isolated, assisting the young with their learning and life choices, protecting and nurturing our wildlife and environment and ensuring the arts and our heritage are enjoyed and preserved," Cr Lougheed said.

"The first point of call for many people seeking assistance or referral in Latrobe City is often the Latrobe Information & Support Centre. However, just as they are leaders in putting people in touch with volunteer organisations, they play an important role in pointing people towards where they can help as volunteers," Cr Lougheed said.

Manager of Latrobe Information & Support Centre, Karin Thomsen, said that every week is an excellent opportunity to stop by and have a chat about what volunteering options are available.

"With over 90 non-profit organisations listed, covering a variety of separate volunteering roles, Latrobe Information & Support Centre is a good place to start to find a volunteering role which suits you," Ms Thomsen said.

Ms Thomsen said that Councils ‘flying the flag’ during Volunteers Week are acknowledging the enormous value of the contribution that volunteers make in their communities.

"Working in partnership with Latrobe City Council also helps ensure that our resources and information are shared, and that local government is truly connecting with the local community," Ms Thomsen said.

Ms Thomsen said there were many rewards for those undertaking volunteer work. As one volunteer recalls, "I have gained so much from volunteering, such as, increased confidence, skills, training and a great sense of contributing to my community."

"So when passing the volunteers’ flags, look up and pause to think of the value of our volunteers," Ms Thomsen said.

"Better still, contact your local Volunteer Resource Centre and become one of the volunteers the flag flies for," Cr Lougheed added.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com