It might be in CatholicCare Hunter-Manning's Community Kitchens, our parishes, schools, or other local community services like our hospitals, aged care centres or community groups.
This week, to mark International Volunteer Day on Thursday 5 December, we celebrated our volunteers with a number of events across Taree, Forster, and Newcastle. These celebrations were an opportunity to thank volunteers for their time, efforts, and unwavering support in 2024.
Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle CEO Sean Scanlon thanked volunteers for their contribution across the Diocese.
“The way in which our volunteers support our work is unique and the work you do is critical. In parishes, in CatholicCare and our schools. We say thank you,” he said.
We also spoke with CatholicCare volunteer Mary Tupou, who shared some of her insights and experiences from volunteering.
Mary was a teacher for more than 35 years. When she retired, she wanted to stay connected to people, so she started volunteering, and this led her to CatholicCare and its Hamilton South Community Kitchen.
“Volunteering at the kitchen is like coming into a family. It's not just the volunteers who make you satisfied, it's the people who are there," she said.
"I don't see it as helping, I see it as facilitating something they need.
“It makes me really appreciate the privileges that I've got and that my family have because so many people in our community are doing it tough.”
Mary reflected on the fusion of faith and giving back.
“My mum and dad volunteered for different organisations and helped people out. Part of our faith is to be part of outreach.”
Mary encourages other people to engage in volunteering across the breadth of services our Diocese has to offer.
"Don't hesitate to volunteer. Some people might like to BBQ food or help provide food to people who are doing it tough. Others might like to fold clothes or cook.
“There are a multitude of things, and there's such a shortage of volunteers. Don't hesitate to get involved."
To find out more, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Michelle Robinson on michelle.robinson@mn.catholic.org.au
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