Celebrating Our Volunteers During National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the incredible people who give their time and energy to support our community. At the City of Charles Sturt, we are proud to have over 220 registered volunteers who contribute to a wide range of programs, from community services and sustainability projects to libraries and social support.
This year, National Volunteer Week celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together, with the theme ‘Connecting Communities’.
Volunteering creates lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen communities. It fosters connection, belonging, and genuine community spirit, values we hold close here in Charles Sturt.
This week, we’ve had the privilege of celebrating the dedication of our volunteers, including those who have reached significant milestones: 5, 10, 15, and even 25 years of service. Their generosity and commitment help make Charles Sturt a more connected, inclusive, and supportive place to live.
Our volunteers are the heart of our community, and we simply couldn’t do it without them.
Thank you to every volunteer who plays a role in making a difference. Your contribution means the world.
Hear stories from a few of our City's valued volunteers in the videos below.
Pauline's Story
For over 22 years, Pauline has been a dedicated volunteer, making a meaningful impact across a range of community programs.
From gardening and graffiti removal to her current roles walking dogs for those unable to and assisting as a bus aide on community outings, Pauline continues to show up for others in practical and compassionate ways.
She finds deep personal fulfilment in her volunteer work, cherishing the joy of helping others and the positive change it brings to her community.
Angela's Story
Angela has been volunteering her time at Findon Community Centre for more than 11 years. The Centre has become a "second home" to her.
Volunteering gives Angela a sense of purpose and pride in her community, and she describes it as the "best thing she's ever done". It has also opened opportunities for her to pursue study at TAFE and meet a range of amazing people.
Kristy's Story
Flinders Park Football Club is like a "second home" to Kristy and her family.
The proud mother is at the club every day volunteering her time in various duties all in the interests of helping others and giving back to the community she loves.
Kristy received the Sports Volunteer of the Year Award at the 2022 City of Charles Sturt Sports Awards such was the profound impact she's had at her club.
Andy and Kale's Story
Andy and Kale volunteer their time each week at Arch Paterson Community Centre and have formed a special friendship through their duties.
The pair assist in the kitchen, help set up and pack down the centre and also form meaningful relationships of their own with the clients.
They play an important part in providing care, routine and connection for those who attend, as well as building a sense of purpose and achievement in their own lives.
Jillian's Story
Our community centres are amazing places thanks to special people like Jilllian.
She has volunteered for several years at Cheltenham Community Centre to coordinate a Needlecraft group, helping connect our community and donate knitwear and supplies to people - and even animals - in need.
The kindness of her heart shines through as she shares with us why she continues to donate her time each week at the centre.
Giannina's Story
Fitzroy Community Club has been like a second home to Giannina.
She has donated her time, services and skills in various roles at the club for more than 15 years to help bring people from all walks of life together in a safe and supported space.
Vania's Story
Meet Vania, one of many wonderful community visitors who volunteer their time to spread kindness across our City.
Originally from Brazil, Vania has lived in the Middle East and also Sydney before recently moving to South Australia and has remained an active volunteer throughout her journey across the globe.
Margaret's Story
People like Margaret make our community special.
She volunteers with children and the elderly volunteering as a parishioner at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church at Henley Beach.
Peter's Story
Henley's own Peter Graham shared his incredible journey after he began as a volunteer at his local swimming pool.
Peter went on to be an announcer at multiple Olympic Games and World Championship events across the globe.