Volunteers build strong communities

From Monday 15 to Sunday May 21 we are celebrating National Volunteer Week (NVW).

NVW is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteers, and it is a time to celebrate, thank and recognise the significant contribution millions of volunteers make across Australia. Volunteers are critical to the success of Men’s Sheds, often working tirelessly behind the scenes. An occasional ‘thank you’ for their hard work can go a long way. By sharing your gratitude for your volunteers’ hard work, you help to foster a sense of community, encourage your volunteers, and inspire others to jump on board and lend a hand.

Mount Isa Shed recently acknowledged the hard work of Yvonne, one of their staunch supporters. Richard , from Mount Isa Shed, writes …

Yvonne’s husband was one of a group of men in “the Isa” who grew the idea that a Men’s Shed would be the perfect place for a Prostate Cancer Support Group. The project was established with the help of a team of volunteers and support from local businesses and the Mount Isa City Council.

Yvonne took on the role of Secretary/Treasurer and has worked tirelessly in the position ever since. Several wives of Shedders have also given their time, energy and support to the men in various behind-the-scenes roles, and their contribution cannot be understated. While the faces of the Shed members have changed over the years, and numbers have fluctuated, Yvonne has always been there for us.

Recently Yvonne took on the task of applying for funding grants on behalf of the Shed. She successfully obtained funding to cover the installation of Solar Panels for the Mount Isa Cancer House Building, where our shed is located, and separate funding for installing an industrial evaporative cooling fan.

Mt Isa Shed would like to thank all volunteers and supporters, past and present, who have contributed to the life of our Shed.