Some of the South East’s most dedicated volunteers have been recognised by leading blindness and low vision service provider Vision Australia.
Vision Australia Melbourne South East Region, held its annual volunteer recognition ceremony in Berwick this week, acknowledging the numerous volunteers that give up their time each week to support the region’s blind and low vision community.
The event saw individuals marking one, three and 25 years of volunteering receive service pins acknowledging their milestones.
Jean Phibbs was one volunteer who received a 25-year service pin.
“We take our vision for granted and I thought about how very lucky I have been, so I decided to become a volunteer because it is a wonderful way to help put back in to society,” Ms Phibbs said.
“I have assisted Vision Australia clients with their day-to-day tasks such as shopping, accounts, cooking, as well as taking them to the movies, even sorting coloured wools for a client who knits.”
While she has been formally recognised for more than 25 years of service, Jean’s volunteer journey began earlier, having regularly done reading for a law student with low vision.
“The courage shown every day by people who are blind or have low vision greatly inspire me to keep volunteering and helping others.”
Vision Australia regional business manager Janet Lloyd-McNelis said the annual celebration is an important event.
“Every day we’re fortunate enough to be supported by an amazing group of volunteers. It wouldn’t be possible for us as an organisation to provide our clients with the level of support they deserve without them,” Ms Lloyd-McNelis said.
“Whether it’s administration, client support, running our Op Shops, organising community groups or assisting with events, they’re always ready to help and it’s important we take the time to say thanks and acknowledge all they make possible.”
In the past year, Vision Australia has been supported by more than 3000 volunteers across the country, who have contributed more than 1 million hours to supporting people who are blind or have low vision.
