A GRANDMOTHER responsible for boosting volunteer numbers in the Redlands could win a state award for her efforts.
Deborah Tearle has been shortlisted for the Queensland Volunteering Award as part of National Volunteer Week, on from May 21.
Described as a “true inspiration” by her colleagues, Ms Tearle has matched hundreds of Volunteering Redlands recruits with their ideal role.
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She has also celebrated the work of generous individuals through the biannual Greg Cook Volunteer Recognition Awards, which she set up and continues to oversee.
A Volunteering Redlands spokeswoman said Ms Tearle’s work had encouraged Redlanders to become more community-minded.
“More than 800 individual volunteers have registered with Volunteering Redlands since its inception in 2013,” the spokeswoman said.
“An average of seven Redlands volunteers are matched with their ideal volunteer role every week.
“Deborah has also helped build and strengthen networks with other community organisations, local councils and local businesses.”
The theme for this year’s National Volunteer Week is “Give a little, change a lot”.
A Volunteering Queensland spokeswoman said helping out others was a great way to feel more positive.
“Even a few hours of volunteer work can make a huge difference in a person’s overall happiness and improve their physical and mental health,” she said.
“(The theme) represents the millions of volunteers who make a profound impact in their communities and on society, through giving a little time.”
Visit Volunteering Redlands at volunteeringredlands.org.au.
