About 50 volunteers within the City of Canning helped deliver services and events to the community, so this week it’s all about celebrating them.
National Volunteer Week is the annual celebration to acknowledge the contribution of volunteers, with this year’s theme being “Changing Communities. Changing Lives.”
The city encouraged residents to join Volunteering Australia’s Wave your Appreciation for Volunteers from May 18 to May 24.
A city of Canning spokesperson said volunteers are the backbone of the community.
“We are very fortunate in Canning to have so many people that give their time freely to volunteer for the community,” he said.
“Whether it is for their sporting club, school, group, church, local organisation or even for the city, volunteers should be celebrated for everything they do and Volunteers Week is a great time to do that.”
Volunteers in Canning help support the city in a number of areas including Books on Wheels, city events, heritage, Canning Lodge, library services and more.
Shirlene Scanlan is a local volunteer who dedicates her time at the Canning River Eco Education Centre and is a passionate about educating young people about the environment.
“My career in nursing spanned 42 years and as I approached retirement, I began considering my options in voluntary work,” she said.
“I have always loved the outdoors and have taken a keen interest in environmental issues, and felt that I wanted to work with children and the environment.
“I have escorted children on bird watching excursions, participated in both Earth Day and Science Expo, and other community events, created educational tools, supported my colleagues, forged great friendships and learnt a lot about our beautiful Canning River Regional Park.
“My aim is that our visitors enjoy the displays and take home some message, be it about our native flora or fauna, or some current environmental topic.
“I like that I am part of a team that promotes sustainability and community and that my place of work.
“I think that sums up why I continue to be so enthusiastic about the best job I have ever had.”
