TO mark National Volunteering Week, Derwent Valley Council will launch a new volunteer directory.

National Volunteer Week runs from May 15 to 21 and is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.

It recognises the vital support that the millions of volunteers across
the country provide to their communities and encourages people to consider volunteering.

This year’s theme is The Change Makers.

Tasmania has the highest per capita number of volunteers in the country.

Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said local volunteers were integral to the local sense of community that the Derwent Valley was known for.

“Whether you give your time to a local charity, a community organisation, or a cause that’s close to your heart, your efforts make a real difference in the lives of others,’’ Mrs Dracoulis said.

“It’s a chance to be a part of something bigger than yourself, and to help make the Derwent Valley a better place to live.”

As part of National Volunteer Week, the Council will launch a new local Volunteer Directory, promoting volunteering organisations and opportunities to get involved and become a volunteer.

The directory will be featured on Council’s website and will also be accessible in hard copy from Council’s Customer Service desk and the New Norfolk Library as a local resource.

There will also be a campaign across the week featuring local volunteer and organisational profiles, celebrating a range of volunteering within the Derwent Valley community.

The profiles will be featured on Council’s website and Facebook page.