The spirit of Volunteerism was celebrated in full at the St Vincent de Paul Society’s National Volunteer Week Awards Ceremony on Tuesday 20 May, held at the State Support Office in Lewisham and joined by many more online from across New South Wales. The event honoured the tireless dedication, compassion, and impact of our extraordinary volunteers.

This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities” reflects the inclusivity and diversity of volunteer contributions. Whether sorting donations, mentoring youth, delivering food, or offering a warm smile to someone in need, Vinnies volunteers continue to be the backbone of our mission.

Yolanda Saiz, CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, opened the Awards Ceremony with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, and then warmly welcomed the special gathering of volunteers whose good natured spirits, warmth and excitement exuded through the occasion. 

“At the Society, volunteers are more than helpers. You are advocates. You are listeners. You are changemakers,” Yolanda said, honouring the transformative power of volunteers’ compassion.

Brett Macklin, Director, Vinnies Services Strategy Delivery & Integration, shared moving reflections on the impact of volunteers in our services, that “it’s not grand gestures but small, consistent acts of kindness that change lives.”

He acknowledged that every volunteer, no matter their role, contributes to a ripple effect of hope and dignity in our communities.

Paula McCormack, North-East Regional Manager, Retail, highlighted the broader contribution of dedicated Retail and Logistics volunteers, whose work not only provides sustainable and great value goods to the community but is also the main generator of funds for the Society’s extensive and critically needed services. From operating ‘Return and Earn’ depots, to creating welcoming spaces in Vinnies Shops, these volunteers embody the heart and hustle of Vinnies.

The audience was treated to a video of volunteer stories, followed by the highlight of the event, the Volunteer Awards Ceremony. From Youth Volunteers to Lifetime Contributors, each award recipient exemplified service, leadership, and heart:

Youth Volunteers of the Year
Jamie Naffah (Services & Programs)
Finnlie Bidner and Seth Glennon (Retail)

Adult Volunteers of the Year
Sinead Kent (Services & Programs)
Ian Young (Return & Earn)

Senior Volunteers of the Year
Stewart Quinn (Services & Programs)
Doreen Wurth and Lorraine Riviere (Retail)

Volunteer Leaders of the Year
Andrea Fernando (Services & Programs)
Dianne Maher (Retail)

Volunteers of the Year
Alex Procajlo (Services & Programs)
Christine Cox (Retail)

Closing the ceremony, Yolanda urged all present to let the celebration be a spark for continued action: “The world needs more kindness, more courage, more connection - and I believe, without a doubt, that our community of volunteers is leading the way.”

As National Volunteer Week comes to a close, we extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer - those celebrated on stage, those who serve quietly each day, and those who inspire by simply showing up. Together, you are building a more just and compassionate Australia.