Spotlight Shines On 1,500 Happy Volunteers at Churches of Christ Care

Churches of Christ Care in Queensland joins the nation in celebrating the significant role volunteers play within our community this National Volunteers Week, with the theme ‘Give Happy, Live Happy’.

The leading not-for-profit organisation is blessed to have 1,554 active volunteers engaged in supporting events, mission and work across Queensland, Victoria and Vanuatu, a growth of more than 41% from last year. Additionally local churches supported by the organisation conduct a range of volunteer work in their communities.

Chief Executive Officer Dean Phelan attributes the growing involvement of volunteers to increasing community engagement, connecting people to people resulting in tangible positive changes amongst those they are helping and themselves.

“Our volunteers contribute a lot of their time, care, and commitment, not only to the work of our organisation, but also to the community, bringing a brighter future for all,” Mr Phelan said.

“It is through the expression of love that we are all enhanced.”

A diverse volunteer program is delivered in areas ranging from rural North Queensland, to metropolitan cities such as Melbourne and Brisbane.

In the current financial year, more than 72,000 volunteer hours are projected to be contributed for the benefit of clients and residents, offering a labour replacement benefit in excess of $2.5million as a conservative estimate.

Group Manager Volunteer Services Jodie Mears accredits the increase of volunteer numbers to elements of diversification and futureproofing of the delivery of volunteer services.

“The real value of our program is the social aspect our volunteers bring to our services, whether that is improved health and wellbeing, a valuable workplace experience, an opportunity to pay kindness forward or to gain a sense of belonging,” Ms Mears said.

“Our focus for 2016 is less about numbers and hours of contribution and more about creating a positive impact through volunteer engagement, bringing meaning to the clients and vulnerable families we support through our care services and missional activities.”

“Volunteers choosing to join our program enjoy a contemporary framework for volunteering where their goals, skills and motivations are the central consideration for matching them with opportunities that will inspire them and help them to find meaning in their volunteer role.” Ms Mears said.

National Volunteers Week is an annual celebration, acknowledging the substantial amount of time, energy and devotion made by volunteers. A series of celebratory events will be hosted by Churches of Christ in Queensland in recognition of volunteers across each service area. Volunteers will be recognised through local thank you breakfasts and lunch events, recognition awards and gifts.

For more information on volunteering with Churches of Christ Care, please visit their Volunteering pages.

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