A special celebration was held to mark the tenth anniversary of the Kingborough Volunteer Program on Thursday, July 21.
Volunteers and recipient clients of the Kingborough Council funded program were invited to share in the occasion, which included formal speeches, piano music, and refreshments at the Kingborough Community Hub.
The Volunteer Program has been coordinated by Trish Jay since its inception in 2012.
Trish said the support shown by the program’s “wonderful volunteers” was always appreciated.
“The Program provides volunteer support, with gardening, transport, pet support and social interactions, to those aged over 65 years who live in their homes throughout Kingborough.
A Welcome the Country was delivered by Sarah Wilcox.
The event was also attended by past and present Kingborough Councillors, including Cr Flora Fox, Cr Christian Street, Cr Amanda Midgley, Members for Franklin Dean Winter MP, and Nic Street MP.
Apologies were given by Mayor of Kingborough, Cr Paula Wriedt and Deputy Mayor, Cr Jo Westwood, who were both unable to attend due to illness.
Councillor, Christian Street said the Kingborough Volunteer Program enriched the lives of many in the community.
“Here in Kingborough our volunteers provide nearly 4000 hours of assistance and help people to remain living in their own homes for longer.
“Volunteers are one of the most important resources that any community has, and we treasure our supporters here in Kingborough.
“Our amazing volunteers provide help with gardening, pet walking, transport to appointments and
social support.
“Most importantly, every visit involves a ‘cup of tea’ and a chat and helps address the social isolation that many older members in our community face.
“Many of our clients tell us that they wouldn’t be able to remain living in their own home without the valuable support of our volunteers.
“Volunteering has long been a driver of individual and community well-being.
“Not only does it contribute significant economic value, but also gives us enormous social, cultural and recreational benefits.
“If you or anyone else you know could either benefit from this program or perhaps wish to be part of it as a volunteer.”
To contact the Volunteer Program Coordinator, call 6211 8200 or email kc@kingborough.tas.gov.au
Photo: The tenth anniversary of the Kingborough Volunteer Program was celebrated on Thursday, July 21, by volunteers and recipient clients alike. Pictured Kingborough Volunteer Program Coordinator, Trish Jay with husband Ian Jay. Ian is a founding member of the Channel Men’s Shed group who also volunteer in the program.
