The Kwinana Volunteer Centre celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, doing the meticulous and vital work of connecting organisations in need with people who are eager to share their time and skills.
Richard and Sue Baldwin have volunteered the entire duration of the Kwinana Volunteer Centre, focusing their energies on connecting with children at Leda Primary School where they attend to mentor students, play games, listen and show up as a reliable person in their lives.
Mr Baldwin said their enthusiasm to give back was sparked in a church where they ran a youth group in Karratha, involving exciting bus trips into the bush where they would share life skills.
“There are many students dealing with adult problems and a saying that guides us both is that kids don’t care what you know until they know that you care,” he said.
The couple, who volunteer through EdConnect, are also board members of the school, taking volunteering to a leadership level.
Mayor Peter Feasey said volunteering was crucial to the community’s success and enrichment.
“Since it’s establishment in 2005, the Centre has played a vital role in connecting volunteers with meaningful opportunities and strengthening the spirit of community service in Kwinana.
“Originally launched at the Kwinana Volunteer Resource Centre and housed in the Citizens Advice Bureau at the Kwinana Hub, it has since grown ins cope and impact to now operate from the Darius Wells Library and Resource Centre under the City of Kwinana.
“It is one of 19 such centres in the State and has helped nearly 7000 people find volunteer roles within 1340 organisations, promoting 7525 volunteer roles within the community.
“We reflect on the centre’s contribution to our community in driving positive change, strengthening community bonds and improving the quality of life for countless residents.
“Thank you to all our volunteers, this celebration is a tribute to all those who freely give of their time and energy to make Kwinana better place to live,” he said.
For more information about the Kwinana Volunteer Centre and its services, email volunteering@kwinana.wa.gov.au