National Volunteer Week (12-18 May): Volunteers have been recognised this week by Cancer Council Queensland for contributing to improved cancer survival rates in Queensland.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO, Professor Jeff Dunn, paid tribute to the organisation’s 40,000 volunteers.
“Volunteers are vital to cancer control. They work each day within the community to promote cancer prevention and early detection, raising funds for life-saving research and patient support,” he said.
“Without a doubt, the power of volunteering enables us to deliver on our mission to improve cancer control in local communities.
“The power of volunteers has helped to increase five-year relative survival from all invasive cancers from 53 per cent in the 1980s to nearly 69 per cent today, a significant improvement.”
The theme of National Volunteer Week this year is Celebrate the Power of Volunteering.
“Every volunteer makes a difference,” Prof Dunn said.
“Over the past 25 years as a staff member of CCQ, I have seen our reach grow because of volunteers.
“Their support has helped to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals, families and the Queensland community in general.
“This year, we plan to continue that growth by connecting volunteers even more closely with our work.”
Cancer Council Queensland currently has more than 160 volunteer roles available across Queensland in retail, recruitment, fundraising and support services.
“There are volunteer roles in cancer control for people of all ages and walks of life. Whether it’s promotion or helping in retail shops, or getting on the ground with local fundraising events – there is something for everyone,” Prof Dunn said.
Queenslanders interested in volunteering can visit the ‘Support Us’ section at www.cancerqld.org.au.
Brisbane local, Kelly Staunton volunteers as a Legal Assistant at Cancer Council Queensland’s Head Office.
“It’s rewarding knowing that the volunteer work I do allows Cancer Council Queensland to continue to offer their important services including patient support and cancer research,” Ms Staunton said.
“I like being a part of it, even in a small way, and at the end of the day I also get to go home feeling like I’ve made a contribution.”
Cancer Council Queensland is an independent, community-based charity. The achievements of Cancer Council Queensland are made possible by the generosity of Queenslanders.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or via the Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Head of Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171