This week we celebrate National Volunteer Week, which gives us the perfect opportunity to say thanks to all the volunteers who help keep World Vision running!
Over the past six months alone, World Vision has had over 600 volunteers assist us in many ways. One of these people is Cheryl Lim who began volunteering two years ago as a national events marketing assistant.
Cheryl works to promote Team World Vision, a community of runners from across Australia who participate in existing major public sporting events to fundraise for World Vision’s Multiplying Gift Appeal. In fact, since she started in this role, she's been inspired to run as well!
We asked Cheryl a few questions about the volunteer work she does for World Vision:
What work do you do at World Vision?
My main role is to assist the national events team in the planning, implementation and evaluation of Team World Vision events. I’ve also been able to expand my original role by applying the marketing principles that I have learned at uni to help grow and build awareness around Team World Vision.
What are some of the challenges you have faced?
Balancing uni, work, a social life and volunteering has been difficult at times. However, no matter how hard my week has been, I always enjoy volunteering. I think, the contribution I am potentially making is uplifting in itself.
What do you get in return for what you give?My favourite part about volunteering is the support from my managers and being able to work with inspiring and dedicated people. I regularly draw from the wealth of knowledge and experience from other volunteers and colleagues.
What’s more, I have been able to gain invaluable experience and apply the skills I have learned through other jobs and uni to real situations. Also, watching videos and hearing real stories from those who have been in the field allows me to see the amazing impact that World Vision supporters have.
Tell us about how your running!Part of my role involves encouraging others to run for Team World Vision, so I thought I should "walk [or in this case run] the talk" and just do it. I will be running 21km for the Melbourne Marathon in October and hope to raise $2,100 to provide food aid for children and families in need.
How can others get involved in volunteering?There are always volunteering opportunities on the
jobs section of the website, as well as on World Vision's
Facebook and
Twitter.
Another way is to sign up for a running event and raise money for
Team World Vision. Even running 5 or 10km can raise money towards making a real difference to others in need!
On behalf of World Vision we would like to thank all those people who dedicate their time to make a real difference in our communities by volunteering - keep up the good work!