Council thanks volunteers during National Volunteer Week

Ararat Rural City Council is celebrating National Volunteer Week this week by thanking all volunteers who work to better our way of life.

Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said there are dozens of people right across the municipality who volunteer, giving up their time to make a difference in their communities.

Dr Harrison said more than 60 volunteers are employed at Council businesses and services including Gum San Chinese Cultural Centre, Ararat Gallery TAMA, the Ararat Town Hall, the Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre, Ararat Regional Library and through the Meals on Wheels service.

“Council appreciates everything our volunteers do for us and thank them whole-heartedly for giving up their time to help others,” he said.

"Volunteering is a selfless act and one that brings many rewards to both the volunteer and the recipient. Our Meals on Wheels clients for instance really appreciate the daily interaction with the people who bring them their hot lunches, and love to have a chat with them when they drop by.”

Dr Harrison said Council has this week sent a thank you letter to all its volunteers along with a gift voucher for them to spend at a local café.

“Aside from the Council’s volunteers, there are so many other clubs, organisations and services who benefit from community members giving up their time to volunteer,” he said.

“Whether it’s the local football and netball club, a church, the op shop in your town or your child’s primary school, there are so many services and community assets that would not be able to function without volunteers.

“Council appreciates all volunteers who work tirelessly across Ararat Rural City and thanks them all for everything they do.”

Dr Harrison said due to Coronavirus restrictions, Council has had to temporarily stand down its volunteer work force.

“We know a lot of our volunteers are really missing their work and we are looking forward to the time when we can welcome them back on board. We certainly miss them too.” Ararat Rural City Council will this week be profiling community volunteers on its social media feeds, and also posted a thank you video from staff on Monday 18 May. Check out Council’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds for those.

More about National Volunteers Week can be found at www.volunteeringaustralia.org.