Why Volunteering Matters
Inspired by the quiet generosity of friends and colleagues who give their time in many ways, this article explores what volunteering is really about — and encourages more people in Canberra to take that important first step ahead of National Volunteering Week.
Written by Wilhelm Harnisch, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Focus ACT
Why Volunteering Matters
I was inspired to write this article by the quiet generosity of friends and colleagues who dedicate time to volunteering in many ways. Their selflessness reflects the true spirit of giving and hopefully causes others to reflect on what volunteering is about — and encourages more people to volunteer ahead of National Volunteering Week in May this year.
Canberra's spirit of community
Canberra is renowned for its strong sense of community and generosity. Charities and community groups play a vital role in Canberra's wellbeing and sense of connectedness. Canberra would be much poorer as a society if these organisations ceased to exist or did not have enough resources and volunteers to deliver services and support.
I can only encourage more people to volunteer and to give of their time. Identify your area of interest, ask around and give it a go. The important first step in your volunteering journey is to start — and this can be as simple as making a phone call.
Volunteering looks different for everyone
Giving of your time does not mean you have to commit to a regular time slot every week or fortnight. Many do it on an irregular basis — once a quarter, some once a year, or whenever more help is needed.
There are many ways to volunteer, and each one makes a real difference. Here are just some examples of the ways people give back:
Hands-on support
Lending a hand at events and functions
Cooking sausages at a local sporting or community event
Volunteering technical skills at Men's Sheds
Providing physical support to farmers and communities following floods and bushfires
Behind the scenes
Quietly providing administrative support
Donating financially or goods to op-shops
Professionals giving their expertise pro bono
Sitting as non-executive directors on boards
The difference one person can make
A close friend of mine who is closely involved in a local Men's Shed saves his money during the year to purchase an airline ticket and accommodation to go to Africa. He spends two weeks working with the local community to identify what farm or other equipment they need to improve their daily way of life, which he then generously purchases and donates.
At a very local level, I am proud and grateful for the many volunteers past and present who give of their time at Focus ACT. Their impact is visible when you see the smiles, hear the laughter and feel the joy they bring to the people they support.
At the board level, Focus ACT is privileged to have experienced and busy professionals who manage the complex governance and financial side of a long-standing registered and trusted NDIS provider in Canberra.
Volunteering is about giving your time in whatever way you can. Whether your contribution is big or small, regular or occasional, it matters. The most important step is simply to start. Give volunteering a go — you might be surprised by the difference you can make.