Beijing revives volunteer memories

Thursday, 28 August 2008

With the Beijing Olympics reviving memories of the sensational efforts of the Sydney’s 2000 Games volunteers, entries are pouring in for the 2008 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award.

“It’s been just great,” says Tony Ross, Acting CEO of The Centre for Volunteering, which is coordinating the Award. “We’ve had a surge in interest following the Beijing Olympic Games.

“Everyone remembers the efforts of the volunteers in 2000 – we were reminded again of Australian willing during World Youth Day. But that’s really just the public face of an enormous current of public wellbeing.

“In crude financial terms volunteers in Australia are estimated to contribute about $14 billion a year through their unpaid efforts. In NSW the figure is almost $5 billion a year, based on $15 per hour.

“But in services to the social community infrastructure, there is simply no measure.”

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Award is the only State-based quest to recognise the 1.4 million volunteers in NSW who work tirelessly for the community. The Centre for Volunteering, the peak body for unpaid work in NSW, launched the program last year.

Mr Ross, says not-for-profit organisations throughout the State have responded and are nominating their most dedicated and productive workers.

“There are some great stories out there – and plenty to make you feel very humble,” he said. “People go to extraordinary lengths to help others – whether it be through social and welfare work, through helping emergency or sporting organisations or through pro bono professional assistance.

“Whole couples and families are involved.”

Entry forms for the 2008 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards can be found online. Entries close on Tuesday, 30 September 2008.

More Information
Kristin Romanis
Communications Manager, The Centre for Volunteering
T: 8267 6309 or 0412 313 359
E: kromanis@volunteering.com.au

About The Centre for Volunteering
The Centre for Volunteering is the peak body for volunteering in NSW. The Centre promotes and supports volunteering and community participation through volunteer referral, advocacy, research, policy and resource development, training, information and education services enhance the capacity and skills of volunteers, not-for-profits, corporations and government to become involved in the community. Visit www.volunteering.com.au