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Tireless workers help community

The West Australian
Shamara Williams said that volunteers are the lifeblood of regional communities.
Camera IconShamara Williams said that volunteers are the lifeblood of regional communities. Credit: Jon Gellweiler/South Western Times

Regional communities would not function without the selfless work of volunteers, both formal and informal.

Volunteers have a profound impact on community groups, sporting clubs, arts organisations and charities.

Volunteer South West coordinator Shamara Williams said volunteers were extremely important to cities and towns in the South West.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of the community, there would be a number of organisations closing their doors if it wasn’t for volunteers, particularly during this crisis,” she said.

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“People are really keen to do something to help, especially when they’re stuck at home.

“We’ve seen a lot of informal volunteering, kudos to everyone doing that.”

Becoming involved with community groups in a volunteering capacity can also be good for your health.

“It’s everything from mental health to general health, and they say it even promotes longevity,” Mrs WIlliams said.

“You are active, you are going out, meeting people, making new friends and you have that social networking going on.

“These are all positive things and it definitely builds community.

“Right now, community is very important, because we don’t want to become people who distance themselves mentally.

“It’s physical distancing we’re meant to be doing.”

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