A group of volunteers before COVID restrictions began

Salvos volunteers persist with dedication and kindness

This year has been a rather tough one. Incessant drought, devastating bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic has turned life upside down for countless Australians. But in these fighting times, we have seen some heroes emerge – our army of volunteers.

As we mark National Volunteer Week 2020 from 18-24 May, we celebrate the invaluable contribution that volunteers have made across Australia, especially in these testing months. This year’s theme – ‘changing communities, changing lives’ feels especially true, as our volunteers are helping The Salvation Army change communities and lives.

Volunteers are at the heart of all that we do at The Salvation Army. In our retail stores, supporting firefighters during the bushfires, fundraising during the Red Shield Appeal, preparing meals for a community lunch and beyond – our committed volunteers are there to help those in need, day after day.

Susan Reea is one such volunteer.

Susan faced many challenges in her life – from struggling with homelessness to losing several loved ones in a short span of time. However, when the time came for her to decide how she wanted to live her life, Susan chose the path that would make a difference not just to her, but to her community.

 “Since volunteering at the Salvos…I’ve just gone from strength to strength. I love what I’m doing. I love volunteering, I just love helping people.”

Susan is one of the 30 000 volunteers helping The Salvation Army to live, love and fight alongside others to transform Australia one life at a time with the love of Jesus. This National Volunteer Week, we embrace the opportunity to thank every single volunteer for who they are and al they do.  

The Salvation Army Australia Territory Leaders, Commissioners Janine and Robert Donaldson share their heartfelt thanks in their National Volunteer Week address. Click below to watch – know their gratitude is echoed by all of us across the Army.

COVID-19 and volunteering

COVID-19 resulted in the widespread closure of retail and community spaces and activities – places where many of our volunteers serve. However, many have continued helping us support some of the most vulnerable members in our communities.

It has also been heartwarming to see so many volunteers across Australia eager to get back to volunteering. As we gradually and safely resume operations, we can’t wait to see our army of volunteers back at full force.

Once again, thank you for who you are and what you continue to do. We couldn’t do it without you.

If you would like to learn more about volunteering with The Salvation Army, please visit our Volunteer with us page. Opportunities to get involved will increase once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.