By Stacey Foster, Support Group Coordinator
National Volunteer Week (18 – 24 May) is the annual celebration to recognise and thank all the wonderful volunteers around the country.
According to the Centre for Volunteering (NSW peak body for volunteering) 2025 State of Volunteering Report, the value of volunteering in NSW is $205.3 billion. For every dollar invested in volunteering, there is a remarkable $5.60 return. In the same report, the stated replacement cost of volunteering is $45.5 billion.
Other interesting key findings include:
69.5% of the NSW adult population volunteered, which is 4.9 million people.
Volunteers contributed 1.3 billion hours with an average of 22.7 hours per month
49.6% of volunteers give their time within their local community
At Parkinson’s NSW, volunteers drive the success of our 75-strong network of face-to-face support groups. Without our incredible volunteers, there would be no support groups.
Support groups can provide immeasurable benefits to people living with Parkinson’s, their care-partners and families.
Our volunteer support group leaders and committees organise meeting venues and guest speakers; plan meetings, outings and extra circular activities; create newsletters; provide food; fundraise; raise awareness…just to name a few! They come from all walks of life – small business, farming, school principals, health professionals, artists, public service. Some are still working; most are retired. They are living with Parkinson’s, caring for someone with Parkinson’s, or work with both.
Year after year, they play a vital role in building connected and inclusive communities. They provide a safe place for the Parkinson’s community to come together to access education, support and a sense of belonging.
My sincere thanks to all of our volunteers who are juggling multiple priorities and who are still creating a sense of community. You give so much of your time and Parkinson’s NSW is so appreciative.
If you are a part of a support group and would like to give back, or help others, or use your skills and experience, please reach out to your leader or committee. There is no one way to volunteer. Every contribution matters.
Thank you.
