Berwick Evening VIEW Club is calling on members of the community to consider volunteering for children’s education charity, The Smith Family, as part of National Volunteer Week (17-23 May).
VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) is a leading women’s organisation with 300 clubs across Australia, all dedicated to supporting children in need with their education through The Smith Family. Members do this through community fundraising, spreading awareness, and volunteering.
This year, one of the key themes for National Volunteer Week is ‘reconnection’, which Berwick Evening VIEW Club president Jan Whitaker said is more important than ever before.
“Last year, Covid meant we couldn’t have that hands-on connection with the community, which was really hard for a lot of people,” she said.
“Volunteering is a great way to get back out there, make friends, and feel like you’re really making a difference to the lives of young people and their families.”
Members of Berwick Evening VIEW Club volunteer for The Smith Family by being reading supporters in The Smith Family Dandenong supported schools; collecting school supplies as donations; sewing school book bags; and volunteering many hours at Bunnings Sausage Sizzle Saturdays.
Ms Whitaker said there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to help out.
“We are always looking for women to join us in supporting The Smith Family and we’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch and come along to our next meeting to learn more about VIEW.”
The Smith Family’s Acting CEO, Judy Barraclough, said volunteers were integral to delivering much-needed educational support to disadvantaged children and their families.
“I thank all VIEW members for their tireless efforts in advocating for and supporting the important work of The Smith Family.
“By donating your time, talent, and expertise, we’re able to continue to provide critical education support to thousands of disadvantaged Australian children and their families.
“We couldn’t do it without you,” Ms Barraclough said.
Anyone interested in finding out more about Berwick Evening VIEW Club should contact Jan Whitaker on 9705 9009 or visit www.view.org.au
