More than six million people in Australia volunteer through organisations across the nation, with 35,000 of them rolling their sleeves up at their local Meals on Wheels service.
Ahead of the country’s largest celebration of volunteering, Meals on Wheels™ Australia is acknowledging its incredible volunteer workforce who make delivering nourishment, social connection, wellbeing and independence possible.
National Volunteer Week, held 19-25 May, highlights the important role of volunteers in our community and the power it has in bringing people together with the theme “Connecting Communities.”
“For over 70 years, Meals on Wheels has connected thousands of Australians with meaningful volunteering opportunities, providing purpose, forming lasting friendships and strengthening communities,” Chair Paul Sadler said.
“Meals on Wheels volunteers are everyday Aussie heroes… a hardworking, welcoming bunch always ready to roll up their sleeves and we are so thankful for every single one of them!”
Mr Sadler is encouraging those who may or may not have considered volunteering for their local Meals on Wheels service to “give it a go” and reap the wellbeing benefits.
Huber Social’s 2023 Social Impact Report revealed Meals on Wheels volunteers report a 10 percent higher wellbeing than other Australians. When compared to other Australian volunteers, Meals on Wheels volunteers enjoy a 4 percent higher overall wellbeing.
“Volunteering with Meals on Wheels builds a sense of belonging and we found those who have been volunteering for at least six years reported significantly higher scores across factors related to their sense of belonging.”
Mr Sadler said connection underpins everything at Meals on Wheels.
“Meals on Wheels is proud of its rich history in connecting older Australians to delicious, nourishing food and social engagement with others, while providing purposeful volunteering opportunities.”
