Held annually on 5 December each year, International Volunteer Day is a chance to celebrate the efforts of volunteers and recognise the contribution that they make to their communities.
International Volunteer Day is an international observance day that was authorised by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985 and it offers an opportunity to promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts and recognised volunteer contributions.
The 2021 theme for International Volunteer Day is “Volunteer now for our common future” and it aims to inspire people to take action now for people and planet.
The United Nations General Assembly notes that when people are encouraged to get involved in solving problems, the solutions are likely to be feasible and lasting. When volunteers are engaged in their communities they held to build a better and safer future for us all.
This can be seen every day within CFA and other emergency services in Victoria. Volunteers who roll up their sleeves and give up their time to keep their communities safe and not just the one they live in but travelling across Victoria or interstate when needed.
The 3V’s project conducted by VFBV alongside our partners at the Victorian State Emergency Service Association (VicSESVA), Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance, the Victorian Council of Churches Emergencies Ministry and Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) conservatively estimates that emergency management volunteers in Victoria contribute $1.9-$2.5 billion dollars to Victoria each year.
VFBV also relies on volunteers, with many CFA volunteers giving up their time to be Brigade or Group Delegates, District Council Executive Members, State Councillors, Board Members and delegates to our various CFA/VFBV Joint Committees and working parties. These members get involved in solving problems to make CFA the best possible place to volunteer.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) CEO Adam Barnett said that the contribution of the 55,000 CFA volunteers across Victoria deserves to be recognised, not just on special days but every day.
“CFA volunteers along with other emergency service volunteers in Victoria show up each and every day to ensure the safety of all Victorians.” Mr Barnett said.
“Our volunteers individually show great courage, ingenuity, stamina and compassion, while collectively they have the agility, expertise and experience to tackle the most daunting challenges.”
“The culture of dedicated and selfless service is a proud Australian tradition. Every CFA volunteer deserves thanks and recognition for the work they do in building community resilience for a safer Victoria.”
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About VFBV: VFBV is established under the Country Fire Authority Act and is the peak body for CFA Volunteers in Victoria. VFBV works tirelessly to represent, advocate and support CFA volunteers to the CFA Board and management, governments, ministers, members of parliament, councils, instrumentalities, business and the public. Our vision is for Strong Volunteerism, Embraced to Build Community Resilience for a Safer Victoria. |
