Volunteers celebrated for creating an inclusive Queensland

Queenslanders are being encouraged to celebrate the contributions of volunteers in making their communities more inclusive as part of International Volunteer Day today (5 December).

This year, the theme for International Volunteer Day is Volunteer for an inclusive future – recognising the role of volunteers in strengthening solidarity and inclusion in their communities.

Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rourke said today was a wonderful opportunity to thank the state’s 714,000 volunteers and encourage more people to take up volunteering.

“Queensland’s army of volunteers dedicate themselves to making our communities more inclusive, caring and resilient,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Celebrating volunteers is particularly fitting today in the wake of the recent bushfire crisis, where volunteers across Queensland rolled up their sleeves, often leaving their own home and families, to keep others safe and help them recover.

“I encourage all Queenslanders to take some time to celebrate the power and potential of volunteerism and recognise the contribution volunteers make to our communities.”

The Palaszczuk Government provides a range of supports for volunteers through Volunteering Queensland.

Mrs O’Rourke encouraged Queenslanders to consider volunteering in their community.

“Volunteering provides opportunities for people, particularly those often excluded, to improve their own lives and play a role in their communities by donating their time and skills,” she said.

“Supporting volunteers in Queensland is a key part of our goal to create thriving communities where Queenslanders, regardless of their personal circumstances, can participate and be included in their communities, be resilient and enjoy social and economic wellbeing.

“I encourage all Queenslanders interested in volunteering to connect with Volunteering Queensland and see what opportunities are available in their communities.”

To find out more about International Volunteer Day visit https://volunteeringqld.org.au/events/1658-international-volunteer-day-2019

For more information about volunteering opportunities for you in Queensland visit https://volunteeringqld.org.au/.

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy0419 562 389