This week is National Volunteer Week, a special time dedicated to recognising and celebrating the extraordinary impact of volunteers across our communities. With this year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” we shine a light on the important role that volunteering plays in bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging.
To celebrate and thank all those who volunteer at the City of Greater Bendigo (over 400 volunteers across numerous departments), a morning tea was held at the Ulumbarra Theatre on Thursday 22 May. There was a wonderful turnout from a variety of people who volunteer for the City. Among the people who attended were Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri, Deputy Youth Mayor Bailey Dolan, Youth Councillors Adian Sanders, Ella Filsell, Moon Vincent and Amelia Westbrook.
During the morning tea Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri gave a speech on volunteering and so did Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf. In Levity’s inspiring speech they gave a bit of an introduction about themselves and why they decided to start volunteering and join Youth Council. Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri said their reasoning for becoming a part of Youth Council was “because I had a lot to say, and nowhere I felt I could productively and confidently say it. To enter into public service via a space surrounded by diverse young people made me feel not only accepted but empowered, and I am certain that the community built by volunteering is the reason I am able to be here talking to you all today.”
Volunteering is a great way, especially for young people to be more connected to their communities and it helps to build young people’s confidence, empathy, leadership skills, problem solving skills and so much more. There are many benefits from volunteering such as creating lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen communities. It is also known that volunteers have an incredible impact in building thriving and inclusive communities.
Youth Mayor Levity Camilleri also highlighted the importance of volunteering by saying “Volunteering unites us not only through having shared experiences, but also through a common goal of improving our municipality and making it a kinder and more welcoming place for all of its residents.”
YO Bendigo would like to thank all our amazing young people who volunteer with us and acknowledge the extremely positive impact they have and all their hard work. We are so proud of all our volunteers!
If you are interested in volunteering at the City Of Greater Bendigo or know someone who is, check out the MyImpactPage - City of Greater Bendigo. There are many areas you can volunteer in such as YO Bendigo who have a few groups which are Youth Council, YO Events, and YO Media. Other areas include the Bendigo Art Gallery, the Bendigo Visitors Centre and so many more interesting opportunities.
