By Callum Ludwig
The Covid-19 pandemic provided a major challenge for businesses and households alike, and online shopping and frugal spending became the norm.
Spare a thought for volunteer organisations with National Volunteer week running from Monday 16 May, who so often rely on social events and efforts to fundraise.
The Rotary Club of Wandin did and has proudly donated $2000 dollars to four local volunteer organisations. President Ben Vallence said it has been incredibly hard for many volunteer organisations to keep operating.
“These volunteer organisations cannot operate unless they are able to fundraise. The Wandin Rotary Club saw these organisations were struggling and decided it wanted to help them out,” he said.
“We couldn’t think of a better way of acknowledging our incredible volunteers than providing some much-needed funds during National Volunteer Week.”
Mr Vallence presented the Wandin Fire Brigade, the Seville Rural Fire Brigade, the Gruyere Fire Brigade and the Inner Wheel Club of Wandin with a $500 cheque each at their most recent Rotary meeting.
“Our local Fire Brigades and CFA volunteers do an amazing job for our community. They are always there to put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” Mr Vallence said.
“We wanted to demonstrate how important they are to the community and provide them with the support they need to continue providing their essential service to the community.”
The CFA thanked its over 54,000 volunteers for more than 1200 brigades across Victoria in recognition of National Volunteer Week in a challenging year that has seen CFA members assist local, Victorian and interstate efforts.
Mr Vallence said fundraising for the Rotary Club of Wandin has even been tough in recent times.
“We are very much looking forward to holding our annual Wandin Custom Car and Bike Shows again after two years. The Car Show not only helps Rotary raise funds to donate to the Royal Children’s Hospital and put back into the community, but it also gives these volunteer organisations the ability to raise much-needed funds,” he said.
“The Wandin Fire Brigade operates the BBQ, the Seville Fire Brigade helps park the cars and the Inner Wheel Club sells soft drinks. It’s a great event where the community can come together and raise funds for so many important causes.”
The first show is on Thursday 27 October at the Wandin East Reserve on Old Baker Rd.
