I’m not one to blow my own trumpet—well, not usually—but I thought I’d write about this in the hope that my grandchildren might read it one day, when they’re old enough to understand it.
Or perhaps they’ll read it after I’ve expired! Either way, I hope they might be inspired to volunteer.
I’ve done a lot of volunteering throughout my life, and I’ve always encouraged my children to do the same. I think volunteering is one of those things that gives back to you in ways you don’t necessarily expect. It can bring a lot of joy, friendships, laughter and a wonderful sense of belonging.
Finding My Place in Inclusive Sport
Most of my volunteering in recent years has been with Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria.
Through volunteering, I’ve had the opportunity to support people to enjoy sport, participate, build confidence and, most importantly, feel included.
There’s something pretty special about being part of a community of people who simply enjoy getting out there and having a go.
Discovering Sport Later in Life
I first discovered the joy of inclusive sport through Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria when I moved to Melbourne in 2018.
Before that, I had spent most of my life wanting to be a sporty person. Not necessarily a competitive sporty person—although, who knows? If I’d been introduced to Blind Sports when I was younger, perhaps I might have discovered that I had a competitive streak hiding somewhere!
But for me, the real joy isn’t about winning medals or being the best.
It’s about being part of a community where people can participate in sport in a way that is accessible, inclusive and, most importantly, fun.
I Never Did It for Recognition
I’ve never volunteered because I wanted a pat on the back or to be recognised for what I do. I’m quite happy quietly getting on with things.
So I was rather surprised—and very humbled—when I found out that I had been named as a finalist in the Victorian Disability Sport and Recreation Awards in the volunteering category.
It was a lovely feeling to realise that the things I had been doing simply because I enjoyed them, and because I believed they were worthwhile, had not gone unnoticed.
Two Finalists from Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria
Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria actually had two finalists in the volunteering category.
The other finalist was Susan Marshall, our Administration Manager, who has been in the role since 2006.
Susan has given many years to the organisation, and I was very happy to be standing alongside her as a finalist.
The Real Reward
Of course, being nominated is lovely, but for me, the real reward has always been the people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve shared along the way.
Volunteering has allowed me to be part of something bigger than myself. I’ve been able to help others, but I’ve also gained friendships, laughter, confidence and a wonderful sense of belonging.
I think that’s the funny thing about volunteering. You start out thinking you’re giving something to other people, only to discover that you’re receiving an awful lot in return.
A Message for My Grandchildren
And if my grandchildren do read this one day, there’s one thing I hope they take from it.
Volunteer.
Give your time to something you care about. You don’t have to change the world. You don’t have to be an expert. You don’t even have to know exactly what you’re doing when you start!
Just turn up, have a go and see what happens.
You might meet some wonderful people. You might learn something new. You might make someone else’s day a little better.
And, if you’re lucky, you might discover that you’re having a pretty good time yourself.
That’s certainly what happened to me.
Image: Webpage- Victorian Disability Sports and Recreation Awards. Thankyou
