2001:
International Year of Volunteers
Volunteers are the glue that hold our communities
together. - Anon
As the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games closed in a
spectacular ceremony and fireworks display, Juan Antonio Samaranch declared
them the "the best Games ever."
He gave special thanks to the 46,000 Olympic
volunteers whose efforts had played a major role in the smoothly run and
friendly Games.
Around the world, TV audiences in a record 220
countries watched the Games, and saw the brightly jacketed volunteers doing
their bit to make the Sydney 2000 Games are memorable experience. 500,000 hours of service were given in the seven years
leading up to the Games, from volunteers ranging from teenagers to over-70s.
The 2000 Olympic Games will be remembered for the
goodwill generated by the army of volunteers who supported the professionals
in showcasing Sydney and Australia to the world.
The United Nations has declared 2001 the
International Year of the Volunteer with the following objectives:
* To
enhance recognition of volunteer service.
* To
enhance facilitation of volunteer service.
* To
enhance networking of volunteers and volunteer services.
* To
enhance promotion of volunteers and volunteer services.
Meanwhile, closer to home…
Around our suburbs and city, many services and
activities run smoothly and do the things they do through the help of
volunteers.
Mothers often seem to be nature's volunteers.
They help with their children's schools, sports clubs, hobby groups,
community activities, and with child caring, transport sharing and with
countless acts of kindness. Families
and whole communities are strengthened by generous mutual help.
The Governor of Western Australia, Lt Gen John
Sanderson, spoke at the International Volunteer Day, and put it this way:
"The way in which volunteers make their
contribution is unique, the services they provide, the sense of community
they engender and the positive benefits for their own well-being are
enormous. It all adds up to a
wonderful community value."
For those who manage organisations that are
supported by volunteers, you might try some internet resources for
* managing
* recruiting
* training
* and
acknowledging your volunteers:
www.volunteer.org.au
- Volunteering Western Australia
www.iyv2001.org
- UN International Year of Volunteers
www.volunteertoday.com
- Volunteer Today, an electronic gazette
For anyone willing to volunteer, why not try your
local school, charitable organisations, your church, hospital.
Or you can ring Volunteering Western Australia on 9420 7288 for
literally hundreds of opportunities in every type of activity.
By: Graham Green
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