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Celebrate Our Volunteers This May

Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe is encouraging Latrobe Valley residents to celebrate volunteers and their vital contributions during National Volunteer Week, held during May 9 -15.

By Russell Northe - 29th April 2011 - Back to News

Mr Northe said the celebrations, which focus on the theme "Inspiring the Volunteer in You" were a fantastic way to recognise the work of the numerous everyday people in local communities who make extraordinary contributions through volunteering.

"National Volunteer Week is our chance to publicly express our thanks to our many volunteers and to recognise the significant role they play in our communities," Mr Northe said.

"The phenomenal work done by volunteers during past fire and flood events demonstrate the willingness of Victorians to help out in times of emergency.

"However, the work of volunteers goes much further than just in times of need.

"They are the backbone of our rural communities and without their work many of our sporting clubs, organisations and services would not exist.

"Research shows that more than 5 million Australians aged over 18 volunteer to some degree each year and we should be proud that the highest voluntary participation rates are found in country areas," he said.

"These are the people we should celebrate during National Volunteer Week.

"Volunteers give their time and energy freely and willingly for no other reason than through a desire to help others and to do something worthwhile.

"This is a great week for those who have considered volunteering to put their hands up, because by joining a volunteer group people can make a significant contribution to their communities," Mr Northe said.

"Volunteering can also provide opportunities to improve professional skills and experience as well as provide training in preparation to help in the event of an emergency. CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), CFA and SES teams are wonderful examples of this."

Volunteers can visit www.volunteeringaustralia.org/nvw for resources on volunteering, tips on promoting voluntary organisations, fast facts and an activity register.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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