The theme of National Volunteer Week is Give Happy, Live Happy.

The Stawell event will celebrate volunteering in the Northern Grampians and is open to anyone that volunteers with an organisation, group or club. 

The night out will include entertainment, guest speakers and a light supper and will run from 6pm to 7.30pm.

The event is free and groups can promote their volunteer program or services.

The night has been organised by a small working group of staff from Stawell Regional Health, Grampians Community Health, Stawell Neighborhood House, Northern Grampians Shire and Volunteering Western Victoria. 

“The members of the group have been meeting since 2014 to develop a co-ordinated approach to volunteering in the shire,” organiser Katrina Toomey said. 

“Initially, the group focused on building and supporting volunteering already happening in the area, and increasing the number of people who volunteer. 

“The group has also provided opportunities for volunteer co-ordinators to increase their skills and knowledge of supporting and managing volunteers.”

”There are many reasons why people volunteer; wanting to help people, improving conditions in society, meeting people, passing the time, enjoyment or fun, keeping active, increasing skills and improving the chances of getting paid employment.”

Groups interested in attending can contact Kaye Devlin on 5358 0511 or email kaye.devlin@ngshire.vic.gov.au. Services interested in providing volunteer information can contact Katrina Toomey at katrina.toomey@srh.org.au

“The event is to thank and celebrate the volunteers and the difference they make,” Ms Toomey said.

“We also welcome people who are not currently volunteering but interested in volunteering in the future.

“We would love to see as many people as possible attend to help us thank and celebrate all that they do.”