Meet John, a volunteer with Lifeflight in the North Burnett Region of Queensland (Gayndah), sharing his journey as part of our ‘Share Your Story’ series.
Repaying the Community
“A need to repay my community and to ‘put something back’ into the community which has supported myself and my family. We are fortunate to reside in one of the better countries on Earth, and should, where possible, all give a little to make life easier and/or more comfortable for those in our Nation and elsewhere who are less fortunate.”
Realistic Expectations from Government
“Additionally, I have no expectation that the Government at whatever level is there to provide for all the needs of all the people – that is simply not possible.”
The Power of Connection and Generosity
“Volunteering will bring you into contact with great people, generous people, who will inspire you to make a worthwhile contribution.”
Encouragement to Volunteer
“So simply it doesn’t cost a great deal to lend a hand here or there – it is personally extremely rewarding, and I would encourage all to give it a try. Simply, select an area of community need which ‘fits’ with your areas of interest, and go and give a hand. It may be in sport, or in care of those less fortunate, or in supporting overseas aid programs, or in local organisations whose charter is to assist in health needs – there is certainly no shortage of need, and I am sure you will find your passion area.”
The Enormous Rewards of Volunteering
“It is enormously rewarding; it may involve you in traveling overseas to assist in building accommodation, it may simply be helping at a local event once a month; I can assure you it is all needed and will be greatly appreciated by those who benefit from your efforts and your sacrifices.”
Setting an Example through Volunteering
“I would showcase the areas of volunteering I have pursued, and use that as an example to encourage others to follow the path of volunteering.”
Promoting the Critical Work of LifeFlight
“As a ‘volunteer,’ I assist where possible to promote the great work done in our community by LifeFlight, in Queensland, and elsewhere. I attend, along with fellow committee members and staff, a range of fundraising events, and also attend a number of events whose fundraising goes to assisting LifeFlight – enormously satisfying. LifeFlight is a critical service, providing life-saving medical assistance where needed.”
