Thanks to the Volunteers

It was National Volunteer Awareness Week and we were invited to attend a “Reflection – followed by Morning Tea”.  Robin had recently become a volunteer driver with the Cancer Society, and was happy to offer his time to this good cause now he is no longer working.  He takes local patients into Wellington Hospital for treatment and appointments.

Robin’s invitation

About 80 people gathered at St Joseph’s Church, Mt Victoria.  Everyone was given an electronic candle, and as they flickered away we were reminded of the light and goodness inside each person who willingly gives their time to the service of others less fortunate.  Five candles were arranged on the table to remind us of the Southern Cross in our skies, which also features on the New Zealand flag.  All the volunteers were thanked, as they make such a difference to the lives of people touched by cancer.  They provide a myriad of support, from drivers, telephone co-ordinators, visiting the sick, help in the wards, provide baking for the Cancer Society rooms and hostels, gardening and handyman services.  The Wellington area of the Cancer Society is well served with over 500 volunteers, from Wellington City, the Hutt Valley, Kapiti Coast and through to the Wairarapa.  All these people have received training and happily donate their time and energy to help others.  Mary, from the Kapiti area, was presented with a beautiful Camellia tree to mark her 25 years of volunteer work.  The Camellia had lovely pink buds and was fittingly called “Volunteer”.

Camellia tree, candles, and daffodils -  which are the symbol of the Cancer Society

The service was followed by Morning Tea in an adjacent room.  As we mixed and mingled with a nice warm cup of tea, or coffee, we tasted the most delicious cheese muffins, (they were tiny so one was certainly not enough) followed by heart shaped shortbread. 

Morning Tea

The Cancer Society values the work of all the volunteers highly, and  they must make a huge difference to the organisation.  The morning tea today was a very pleasant “thank you” for their efforts, and is surely much appreciated.

Robin, volunteer driver