A Celebration of Giving: Lower Austria Honors its Volunteers
December 5th marks International Volunteer Day, a moment to celebrate the over 800,000 individuals contributing to the fabric of Lower Austria through their dedicated service. “Volunteer Day is a fantastic opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the countless volunteers who make our society stronger,” said State Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner.
“During the recent century flood, we witnessed firsthand the extraordinary impact volunteers have. From firefighters and rescue workers to spontaneous community helpers, thousands stepped up to provide hope and support to those affected. This experience underscored the deep-rooted solidarity and unity that defines Lower Austria. Volunteering truly is our strength; it is a source of immense pride for our region.”
Making Volunteering Flourish
The International Day of Volunteering is not only a day of recognition but also an opportunity for reflection and growth. Kultur.Region.Lower Austria and the Volunteer Center Lower Austria are committed to fostering a vibrant volunteer landscape by implementing initiatives that make volunteering more accessible and rewarding.
The newly established Lower Austria Volunteer Center serves as a central hub for all volunteers, particularly those engaged in informal volunteering or those affiliated with organizations lacking state or federal umbrella groups. Volunteer center staff are readily available to answer questions and provide guidance through the information hotline 0810 00 10 92, which has already assisted over 1,000 individuals annually.
To address the increasing complexities of legal matters encountered by volunteers, the center has welcomed two esteemed experts, volunteer lawyer Matthias Cernusca and volunteer tax advisor Werner Steinwendner.
Protecting Those Who Help Their Neighbors
Recognizing the vital role of informal volunteers, particularly in neighborhood support networks, Lower Austria has introduced the Lower Austrian Volunteer Insurance. This innovative program offers accident insurance, liability insurance, and legal protection insurance free of charge to all volunteers, ensuring their protection even when they are not formally associated with a club or organization.
“With this new insurance coverage, we are providing peace of mind and security to all those who generously give their time and effort to help others,” said Governor Mikl-Leitner.
Connecting Volunteers with Opportunities
The Volunteer Center Lower Austria is taking proactive steps to connect volunteers with meaningful opportunities through a:
* **Volunteer Check:** This tool helps interested parties quickly find a suitable club or organization based on their interests and skills.
* **Extensive Club Database:** This comprehensive resource houses thousands of entries, providing detailed information about local clubs and organizations seeking volunteers.
* **Lower Austrian Volunteer Exchange:** www.freiwilligenboerse-noe.at acts as a platform connecting volunteers with organizations in need.
* **Volunteer Coordinator Training Series:** This valuable program equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead and manage volunteer initiatives.
* **Comprehensive Volunteer Handbook:** This 150-page guide, available for free download or order, offers practical tips on bureaucratic and legal matters, sparks new ideas for volunteer work, and serves as a valuable resource for both existing and aspiring volunteers.
The Joy of Giving Back
“We aim to inspire more people to embrace the rewarding experience of volunteering,” said Martin Lammerhuber, Managing Director of Kultur.Region.Niederösterreich. “Volunteering isn’t just beneficial to society; it brings immense personal fulfillment.” As International Volunteer Day arrives, Lower Austria stands as a shining example of a community that values and cherishes the invaluable contributions of its volunteers.
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, explore the many opportunities available and join the movement of changemakers making Lower Austria a better place for all.
How does Lower Austria celebrate and support its volunteers?
## Interview: Celebrating Volunteers in Lower Austria
Today, we’re joined by [Guest Name], [Guest Title/Affiliation], to discuss the fantastic work of volunteers in Lower Austria and the special events planned for International Volunteer Day.
Welcome to the program!
**Interviewer:** Lower Austria is celebrating International Volunteer Day, December 5th, with great enthusiasm this year. Can you tell us a bit about the significance of this day and why Lower Austria is highlighting its volunteers?
**Guest:** Absolutely! December 5th is a day to express our deepest gratitude to the over 800,000 individuals in Lower Austria who contribute their time and energy to building a better society. As Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner aptly said, “Volunteer Day is a fantastic opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude…” These volunteers are the backbone of our communities, strengthening us in so many ways.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the recent century flood. Could you elaborate on the role volunteers played during that difficult time?
**Guest:** The recent flooding saw an incredible outpouring of support. Thousands of volunteers, from firefighters and rescue workers to ordinary citizens stepping up to help their neighbors, demonstrated the incredible spirit of solidarity in Lower Austria. It truly underscored the vital role volunteers play in times of crisis and beyond.
**Interviewer:** Lower Austria seems dedicated to not only recognizing volunteers but also actively supporting them. What specific initiatives are in place to make volunteering more accessible and rewarding?
**Guest:**
Lower Austria is taking concrete steps to foster a vibrant volunteer landscape. A new Lower Austria Volunteer Center serves as a central hub for all volunteers, providing guidance and support. There’s also a dedicated hotline with experts who answer over 1,000 volunteer queries every year.
Furthermore, we’ve introduced the Lower Austrian Volunteer Insurance, which offers free accident, liability, and legal protection insurance to all volunteers, regardless of their affiliation. This ensures that those giving their time and effort are protected.
**Interviewer:** Those are truly remarkable initiatives. What message would you like to leave with our listeners today regarding volunteering?
**Guest:** Volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s about enriching our own lives. It’s about connecting with our communities, making a tangible difference, and being part of something bigger than ourselves.
I encourage everyone to explore the many volunteer opportunities available in Lower Austria, whether it be formal or informal volunteering. Just one hour of your time can make a world of difference.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights. Wishing all the volunteers in Lower Austria a joyful Day!
**[End Interview]**
