As Australia prepares to celebrate National Volunteer Week next week — the nation’s annual recognition of volunteering — it is the perfect time to acknowledge the extraordinary people who quietly strengthen our communities every single day. National Volunteer Week shines a light on the millions of Australians who generously give their time, skills and experience, while also encouraging others to discover the connection, purpose and fulfilment that volunteering can bring.
At Greater Shepparton Foundation, we are privileged to work alongside an incredible network of volunteers.
We are delighted to introduce one of our newest volunteers, Lynette.
Lynette has a genuine passion for seeing young people thrive and for supporting them to uncover pathways that lead to fulfilling and meaningful futures. With a strong belief in creating opportunity and encouragement, Lynette has recently commenced volunteering one day each week, working specifically across our scholarship programs.
Lynette has already made a significant impact, playing a vital role in supporting a local young person to secure an Employment and Vocational Training Scholarship. That young person has now commenced their pathway course — an exciting and important step towards achieving their employment goals.
“Volunteering truly nourishes my soul; it makes me feel good, helping others and connecting with community,” Lynette said.
Lynette is just one example of the many volunteers who contribute their time and expertise at Greater Shepparton Foundation.
We are also fortunate to have dedicated volunteers serving on our advisory committees, including the Lift Off Education Scholarships and Margaret Attwood Grant Round. These independent committees bring together local people with diverse professional backgrounds and lived experience, helping ensure our decision-making processes are transparent, informed and community-focused.
Our board also consists of highly skilled volunteers who provide leadership, accountability and strong governance for our philanthropic hub as we work to support local people, programs and partnerships to achieve our vision for inclusive, interconnected communities where everybody has equal opportunity to participate.
Beyond our own organisation, we recognise that so many of the not-for-profit services operating across our region and across the world rely heavily on volunteers. These are the people on the front line — listening, helping, mentoring, delivering and creating solutions where they are needed most.
One of Greater Shepparton Foundation’s greatest strengths is our connection to community. By listening, learning and building relationships, we are often able to connect people with the skills and experience to organisations that need them most.
If volunteering is something you have been considering — now or in the future — we would love to hear from you.
This National Volunteer Week, please take a moment to thank a volunteer, celebrate their contribution, and recognise the powerful role they play in building inclusive, connected and resilient communities.
Until next time.
Amanda McCulloch
Greater Shepparton Foundation executive officer
