As National Volunteer Week begins, Vision Australia is set to embark on an extended period of celebration in recognition of those who give up their time each year to support the blind and low vision community.
Each year Vision Australia’s work is made possible by the contribution of its small army of dedicated volunteers, all of whom will be recognised at 35 separate National Volunteer Week celebration events across the country in the coming weeks.
“Every day the work of our volunteers is appreciated, but it’s important that we take the time to specifically acknowledge them,” Vision Australia Chief Executive Officer Ron Hooton said.
“The contribution they make to the organisation is significant, which is why we’re taking the opportunity to ell each and every volunteer that you make it possible. Without your help Vision Australia would not be able to provide the level of service to our clients that we currently do,” Mr Hooton said.
Over the past financial year, Vision Australia was supported by 2,653 volunteers who contributed a total of 764,042 hours. On average that equals 288 hours per volunteer over the year.
Not only do Vision Australia’s volunteers contribute a significant amount of time each year, many have been supporting the organisation for an extended period of time.
“It’s amazing to have so many volunteers who are willing to support us over such a long period of their lives,” Mr Hooton said.
“At our Mornings of Celebration across the country this year we will recognise 34 volunteers who have been with us for anywhere from 20 to 35 years, while another 98 will be recognised for 10 or 15 years’ worth of service.”
More than 570 volunteers will also be recognised for completing their first year as a Vision Australia volunteer.
Along with their breadth of experience, Vision Australia’s volunteer base also brings a wide range of skills and capabilities to the organisation.
“Besides the fact that they are willing to give up so much of their time, what is truly special about our volunteers is that they are willing to put their hand up to take on all manner of tasks.
“From supporting clients with home visits to carrying out administration tasks or from caring for Seeing Eye Dog puppies to producing and presenting a program on Vision Australia Radio, our volunteers provide vital support to Vision Australia across everything we do.”
Interested in volunteering at Vision Australia? To find out more head to our website or contact us on 1300 84 74 66 or at [email protected].