Pathways to Volunteering

The City of Canning will be hosting a Pathways to Volunteering event that aims to bring together aspiring volunteers and volunteering organisations at Riverton Library on 1 April.

The function, open to all ages, will provide those who are looking to give back to the community a chance to find out more about the many formal volunteering opportunities available within the City.

“There are many reasons that people volunteer,” explained City of Canning Mayor Patrick Hall. “It could be to build new skills, meet people, try something new or to gain a sense of purpose. Whatever the reasons, we are extremely grateful to have a strong network of volunteers who selflessly give of their time and skills to help deliver positive outcomes for our Canning communities.”

Research indicates a strong connection between wellbeing and volunteering, and each year across Australia, nearly five million volunteers contribute more than 489 million hours to charities and community organisations.

While many volunteers contribute to environmental initiatives, community welfare, education, sports clubs and other worthy causes, there is also a large network of informal volunteers who provide unpaid support for family members and friends.

The Pathways to Volunteering event will provide the opportunity for those looking to get into volunteering to connect with community groups, ask questions and explore how they can make a difference as a volunteer in the City of Canning.

“Volunteering is a rewarding endeavour,” said Mayor Hall, who has extensive volunteering experience across sporting clubs, Shelley Primary School and the Quairading Police and Citizens Youth Club. “It’s a two-way exchange – you give of your time and effort, but you also gain through social capital and the connection to your community.

“It’s a big part of being an Australian, and Australia certainly needs more volunteers. I encourage our residents to explore ways in which they can give back to our community through volunteering.” 

To book your spot in the City of Canning’s Pathways to Volunteering event, from 3pm – 5pm on Wednesday 1 April, go to the City’s volunteering web page or click on bit.ly/pathwaystovolunteering.