A big shoutout to all the amazing people that Volunteered over the Christmas and New Year’s Holiday Period!
We received an overwhelming response of applications to volunteer for the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, which ran gift-wrapping stalls located in several major Shopping Centres such as Castletown, Fairfield, and Stockland. The Appeal also hosted a Community Christmas Eve lunch at Riverway Corps, and a Christmas Day lunch at the Faithworks Corps. All the volunteering opportunities had an abundance of community members turn up to lend a hand; we even had to kindly decline any further help as all positions had been filled!
We have started getting some amazing feedback in from our volunteers that participated this year; many of them expressing how organised the whole process was, from application to the post working wrap-up. They expressed how great the Salvation Army Team was at providing instructions and assistance with learning how to work at these events. Some Volunteers even brought along other family members like their children to show them what a wonderful experience it could be to help someone in need within the local community. Not only that; but everyone we have spoken to has said they will be doing it again in the future.
It just shows that putting yourself out there and trying something new for the good of another person can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. We have opportunities available all year round to volunteer at https://www.vnq.org.au/volunteer/, so why not take a chance and open yourself to a new experience or build your skills in an area you already know – you will be surprised at the variety of roles out there that are waiting to be discovered. A great way to learn something new whilst providing well needed assistance to your community.
Held between October and December each year, the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal funds vital support services and community programs. As the cost-of-living increases, more Australians are at risk of becoming lonely and disconnected during Christmas. The gift-wrapping service raises funds for struggling Townsville families, and individuals across the local region with food and gift hampers for Christmas. While the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Lunches provide community members with a hot meal and some Christmas Cheer to combat what can be a lonely and isolating time of year for many members of our community.
Support for this appeal is extremely popular, so it is best to get in early next holiday season to secure your spot!
