Volunteers are vital to the success of organisations such as Benalla's Tomorrow Today Foundation and fulfil roles in many different areas.
The theme of the celebration this year is Recognise, Reconnect and Reimagine, and is a great chance to highlight the fantastic work of volunteers and thank them for their contribution to the Benalla community.
Tomorrow Today has 43 local volunteers, who help with the delivery of programs, such as PEEP, Kinder Pals, Reading Buddies and Connect9.
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These generous locals donated more than 1500 hours of their time in 2019-20 to assist Benalla’s children, families and young people.
The work of these volunteers is varied and includes acting as mentors to young people, providing a sounding board for young families, and supporting children while they learn to read.
Volunteers are also involved with fundraising, with The Friends of Tomorrow Today dedicating time to planning and running events to raise much-needed funds for the organisation.
These funds support the many programs Tomorrow Today facilitates.
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Another way locals volunteer for the community is through the governance of Tomorrow Today.
Together, members of the board set the direction of the organisation, provide accountability and ensure there are adequate resources, including helping to secure funding for the activities of the Education Benalla Program.
The board is made up of nine members of the Benalla community, some of whom have been involved for more than 20 years.
A further five volunteers support Tomorrow Today’s governance through board committees.
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Tomorrow Today executive officer Rosie Koop said the organisation was extremely appreciative of its fantastic volunteers, and the work they did for Tomorrow Today.
“Without them we simply would not be able to provide the programs we do for Benalla,” Ms Koop said.
“Our volunteers add great diversity and experience to our foundation and I know our children and young people value the relationships they build with many of them.”
The benefits of volunteering are particularly valuable after the events of the past year, with many people experiencing increased feelings of loneliness and disconnection from family, friends and colleagues.
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By getting involved with community groups and donating their time, volunteers re-engage with the community, increase their socialisation and evidence shows they can expect improved mental wellbeing.
● Tomorrow Today is always welcoming of new volunteers, please visit the Tomorrow Today website for further information.
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