We need you! Make volunteering your New Year’s resolution: Minister

With the New Year just around the corner, Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr is calling on Queenslanders to put volunteering on their New Year’s resolution list for 2008.

“Volunteering can be fun, it’s an important community service and it can be a great way to meet people and learn new skills,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“If more Queenslanders donated just a few hours, or even a few hours each week, each and every one would know they are making a real difference to individuals in need and community organisations,” she said.

“Volunteers can do almost anything – plant trees, umpire local sport, help organise an event, visit older people or provide legal and IT advice. That means anyone can get involved.

“If you have a hobby or special skill, why not share it with someone else?

“Volunteers enrich the lives of those they help and they can have a lot of fun doing it.”

Peak body Volunteering Queensland, which is funded by the State Government, has made getting involved in volunteering easier with a one-stop registration website.

“People of all ages can register and find volunteering opportunities to suit their time and talents on the website,” said the Minister.

Queenslanders can register for positions online and search for training opportunities, while community organisations can find suitable volunteers.

To get involved in volunteering visit www.volqld.org.au

Media contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280