Better Together: National Volunteer Week 2022
Wendy Newton
Two of the dedicated volunteers at the Deloraine Online Access Centre, Henry and Scott, enjoying their Monday shift. Photo by Wendy Newton.
Meander Valley Connect Inc. had the opportunity to recognise the vital work of our volunteers at the Deloraine and Mole Creek Online Access Centres as part of National Volunteer Week celebrations 16-22 May – and, most importantly, to say thank you for the work they do in helping to build digital literacy in our communities.
The volunteer-led Centres, which are funded by Libraries Tasmania, have been serving our communities since 1998, providing invaluable access to digital technology, advice and training to those who don’t have access to equipment or the skills to digitally engage.
It can be difficult to keep up with the rapid changes in new technology and different platforms required by government, business and industry, and access isn’t always easy – in fact, TasCOSS identified Meander Valley as one of 28 communities in Tasmania as having “digital inclusion disadvantage”, with 23.1% of households in Deloraine and Westbury unable to access the internet from home.
Apart from enabling access to the internet and free Wi-Fi, the Centres are a ‘one-stop shop’, with volunteers performing a range of invaluable services, from providing general advice on IT applications and mobile phones, to printing, scanning and helping set up email accounts.
There are also training opportunities for those who would like to stretch their digital skills even further, and gaming on Saturday evenings at Deloraine if you like to challenge your technical skills and imagination.
According to Communities Tasmania, volunteering is Tasmania’s largest sector, larger than both the private and government sectors, with approximately 300,000 Tasmanians contributing a staggering $4 billion in benefits to the state in 2019 - but there’s also a ‘feel-good factor’ for the volunteer.
Research shows that giving to others can bring about a sense of purpose and greater connection, reducing stress and stimulating better mental health.
While volunteering is a powerful way to build more resilient and connected communities, and for individuals to build networks, skills and gain experience, often it is the motivation to ‘give back’ that drives people to volunteer.
Long-standing Deloraine Online Access Centre volunteer, Sandra, who has volunteered at the Centre for more than 20 years, said, “I enjoy helping others and keeping my skills alive.
If you don’t use it, you lose it, especially when it comes to technology.
And you meet lots of interesting people, too.”
The Centres could not operate without the dedication and skills of these committed volunteers, who are always happy to help.
You can drop in 10.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Friday at Deloraine, and 10.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Saturday at Mole Creek for all your technology needs.
If you are passionate about contributing to your community and would like to find out more about volunteering at either of our Centres, we would love to hear from you.
“The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others.”
- DeAnnn Hollis
