RESPONSE to the LifeLine Zululand Volunteers Conference held on Saturday at the Richards Bay Library was a huge success, with more than 130 people present.
LifeLine staff manned tables where they explained the organisation’s role in society, handed out literature and answered questions from mainly youth who attended.
‘The event was held to showcase the work we do and to increase our volunteer base to meet out short- and long-term goals,’ said LifeLine Director Michelle Jewlal.
‘Besides being a means to give back to the community, the prospective volunteers can increase their own knowledge and psychosocial skills, which will benefit their careers and personal lives.
‘We can match the volunteer to his or her specific skill set so that we can best accommodate them in our programmes.’
Potential partners interacted with LifeLine staff who explained the types and degrees of involvement, ranging from crisis and trauma response counselling to general fund-raising, repair work, marketing and events volunteering.
‘While it is not a job, the highest standard of quality, commitment and service is required on the part of volunteers, especially those who will want to be involved in confidential counselling.
‘In return, the volunteer gets the satisfaction of knowing that by helping us they are making a meaningful contribution to other individuals and the community at large,’ said Jewlal.
To become a ‘Friend of LifeLine’ at an affiliation fee of just R100 a year, or to register for the personal growth or counselling training courses, call LifeLine Zululand on 035 7892474 during office hours.
