Celebrate the power of volunteers this week

The spotlight will shine on the state’s 1.2 million volunteers and the outstanding contributions they make to Queensland’s communities during National Volunteer Week (12-18 May) celebrations.

Communities Minister Tracy Davis said the 25th anniversary of National Volunteer Week was the perfect time to look at the contribution of volunteers in the past, as well as how volunteers and organisations can better connect in the future.

“Some clear trends have emerged over the past 25 years in terms of volunteering and it continues to evolve through technology and people’s changing lifestyles,” Ms Davis said.

“The Newman Government promised at the election to revitalise frontline services for families, and the Queenslanders who give their time help us to deliver on that commitment as well as helping those who rely on those services.”

Ms Davis said the internet had also revolutionised the way people volunteer and how organisations could recruit volunteers.

“The internet and technology have created new ways to volunteer and opened up more opportunities for those who want to volunteer,” Ms Davis said.

“Micro-volunteering allows people to use a home computer, smartphone or portable device to volunteer from the comfort of their own home for organisations anywhere in the state.”

The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is: Celebrate the power of volunteering.

The Queensland Government partners with Volunteering Queensland to showcase the power of Queensland volunteers, as well as empower other organisations to provide opportunities for new volunteers.

For more information about volunteering, Queensland events for National Volunteer Week visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/communityservices/volunteering

[ENDS] 12 May 2014

Media Contact Katherine Fraser 0417 172 480