[Sunshine Coast, Queensland, 20/05/2024] - STEPS Group is recognising its team of more than 70 volunteers this National Volunteer Week and thanking them for the diverse passions and talents they bring to help achieve its mission to help provide opportunity to young adults with autism and a disability.
STEPS volunteers are actively involved throughout locations in Caloundra, Maroochydore, Nambour and Cairns in Queensland, as well as Casuarina in the Northern Territory, and support programs and services including STEPS Pathways College, Café on George, STEPS Garden Centre, Mental Health Programs and Education and Training.
Carmel Crouch, Managing Director of STEPS Group, said she was extremely grateful to STEPS’ team of wonderful volunteers who make a positive difference to the lives of both students and staff.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to every single volunteer who not only dedicate their precious time to STEPS, but also provide valuable life experiences and skills that help to inspire and uplift everyone they meet,” Ms Crouch said.
“I truly believe volunteering is incredibly enriching for everyone involved and we are very proud to recognise and celebrate this group of very special community-minded individuals,” she said.
Linda Ritchie has been volunteering at STEPS Pathways College and supporting students for nearly seven years.
“Volunteering with a great team here and working alongside students really is my happy place,” Ms Ritchie said.
“I can’t believe I finally find my purpose in my 70s. I go to bed knowing I made a difference and that is a wonderful feeling,” she said.
“I have a sister with a disability who was in a care facility for over 50 years and never had the opportunity to live an independent life. To attend a graduation and hear and see the STEPS Pathways College students brimming with pride and self-confidence is priceless and I’m proud to contribute to their learning and give them opportunities my sister was never able to access.”
Ms Ritchie is one of three STEPS volunteers nominated for Queensland Volunteer of the Year at the annual Queensland Volunteering Awards which are being held in Brisbane on 22 May.
STEPS Group has arranged a series of activities to thanks its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, including Devonshire Teas at its George St, Caloundra Head Office.
If you would like to volunteer at STEPS, please visit www.stepsgroup.com.au/steps-pathways-charity. Volunteer opportunities currently exist at Café on George and assisting students with independent living skills at the STEPS Pathways College.
Key Facts:
Pictured are STEPS Volunteers from L-R: Linda Ritchie, Student Support; Pam Martin, Garden Centre; and Steve Murray, Kitchen Cook
About us:
About STEPS Group
Since its founding in 1989 by a small group of concerned parents, STEPS Group has continued to empower individuals to achieve, breaking down barriers, and driving change across our communities.
As a national not-for-profit organisation, we are a passionate provider of training, employment, and community services that aim to improve accessibility, reduce poverty and isolation, and help people harness their potential leading to happier, healthier lives. STEPS Group is truly diverse from the services we deliver, to the customers we serve, and the communities in which we work. We are united in our determination to make a positive impact in the lives of the people we work with.
Contact details:
For media enquiries or further information, please contact:
Colleen McMillan - Marketing and Communications Manager, STEPS Group Australia
E: colleenmc@stepsgroup.com.au P: 07 5458 3009
