International Volunteer Day – Thursday 5 December

CFA Digital Library / digitallibrary.cfa.vic.gov.au

 

Today is International Volunteer Day, celebrated each year on 5 December in recognition of the dedication and commitment of volunteers across the world.

 

Message from CEO Greg Leach AFSM and Chief Officer Jason Heffernan

International Volunteer Day provides us with the opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the significant positive impact CFA’s volunteer members have on community safety, as well as consider the rewards and challenges volunteering brings. 

Our volunteer cohort is made up of tens of thousands of individuals across the state. You come from all walks of life, you perform different roles and you have different reasons for joining CFA.

But when you don the CFA uniform whether that be the yellows or blues, you have one purpose: to help others, to work together, to make a positive impact and help build stronger, more resilient communities. 

The contribution of our volunteer members while given without hesitation, doesn’t come without sacrifice. On International Volunteer Day it is important to acknowledge this sacrifice, including the time away from families, jobs and personal lives. There is also the emotional and personal toll of attending and witnessing the impact of fire as well as motor vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, rescues and other incidents, often in your own communities. 

As we head into the peak months of the fire season, we hope that each one of you understands how incredibly valued and respected you are by CFA and all Victorians.   

Happy International Volunteer Day to all our volunteers. Thank you for being part of CFA. Thank you for your bravery, dedication and teamwork in supporting your community and Victoria in times of need.

Take a moment today to reflect on your contribution and the contributions of all volunteers who support and protect our communities. 

International Volunteer Day also provides us with the opportunity to consider the broad role of volunteering and how we too may contribute as a volunteer whether that be with CFA or in the many ways that can make our communities stronger. 

 

Submitted by	CEO Greg Leach AFSM and Chief Officer Jason Heffernan