Australia's great tradition
"Volunteerism is the practice of providing time and skills for the benefit of other people and causes rather than for financial benefit."
There are many ways that people can get involved in causes for the benefit of others.
Australia has a great tradition of volunteerism.
The more we give, the happier we feel!
Volunteering gives mutual benefit, it provides valuable service to the cause and at the same time provides individuals with wide ranging benefits such as developing personal skills, increasing self confidence, a sense of pride and achievement - and that's just for starters.
In our community we have many organisations that offer volunteers the opportunity to join and support a cause.
The types of organisations which seek volunteers are wide ranging, and there is something for everyone.
In regional communities there are unlimited opportunities to utilise your skills for the benefit of others.
All of us know of the more obvious volunteer organisations that have recently provided exceptional service to community including the Country Fire Service, State Emergency Service and local service groups in the support of fire-affected communities.
In addition to some of the larger organisations there are also a multitude of smaller ones that also provide very valuable service to the community.
There are too many to list in this article, however the bottom line is - there is something for everyone.
For example, if cooking and organising is your passion there's the Country Women's Association.
If you love being part of smaller groups there are local progress associations and CMCs.
If natural resources are your 'thing' there are landcare groups and trail development organisations.
And, if it's art and community development there are art galleries and related committees.
Of course, there are groups of tireless workers behind the scenes at local sports clubs and school committees; and groups of all descriptions that do immeasurable good in the community.
Some of these go unrecognised - behind the scene folks do good work.
In any case, my point is, it doesn't matter what your skill set, there is an organisation that will appreciate your time.
I congratulate those people who do volunteer, and encourage those that don't to get involved, it really does make a difference!
NOTE - To discover where you would like to volunteer visit your local council website or information centre for community and sporting groups in your area.