Volunteer sector comes together to build strong community
Volunteer organisations from the across the Coast will join forces with Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson today (November 11) to develop a united vision for the future at council’s inaugural Volunteer Sector Forum at Lake Kawana Community Centre.
Volunteer organisations from the across the Coast will join forces with Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson today (November 11) to develop a united vision for the future at council’s inaugural Volunteer Sector Forum at Lake Kawana Community Centre.
Mayor Jamieson said the recently endorsed Sunshine Coast Social Strategy 2015 highlighted the importance of ensuring people and places were connected by strengthening the focus on social inclusion.
“Council will continue to recognise and show appreciation for the substantial and ongoing contribution made by volunteers and voluntary groups to our community and our way of life here on the Sunshine Coast,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“The benefits of volunteering are very significant and include improving your health and wellbeing, meeting new friends, helping others and being part of something that makes a positive contribution to where you live.
“It’s because of these benefits that the Social Strategy and council have committed to a target of increasing volunteering participation across our community.
“The people of the Sunshine Coast have a remarkable history of active involvement in community life. Currently one in five of our population contribute to volunteering however our aim is to do even better and increase this to one in four.
“Today’s Volunteer Sector Forum brings together key partners including Volunteering Sunshine Coast, Suncare, Comlink, Community Solutions, Steps and many more community organisations that contribute to building and supporting a stronger Sunshine Coast community.
“Today is the beginning of a conversation and collaboration that will lead to a shared vision for the Sunshine Coast.
“Working together will ensure we build and support an even stronger Sunshine Coast community, living in what we aspire to be Australia’s most sustainable region – vibrant, green, diverse.”
Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said council worked with more than 1500 community based non-for-profit groups to help the community have access to a range of community services and activities.
“The Volunteer Sector Forum will provide a clearer picture of what volunteering on the Coast looks like now and identify our challenges and opportunities for the future,” Cr McKay said.
“Through our Social Strategy, council aims to improve the capacity of volunteers and volunteer organisations and provide ongoing opportunities for people to undertake volunteering activities.
“It is encouraging to know that as a volunteer your contribution will support your own well-being and connection, as well as make a difference in your community.”
Visit council’s website to view a copy of the 2015 Sunshine Coast Social Strategy.