Each year, volunteers contribute approximately $25.4 billion worth of unpaid labour to their communities. These volunteers come from all walks of life and have various reasons to give, however, without volunteers, community organisations would not function.
Federal Member of Parliament for Rankin, Jim Chalmers MP recently took the time to acknowledge and thank many of the volunteers in tis electorate by awarding them the Local Legends Award. Two of the 74 recipients this year were Michael and Lyn Wroe, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Logan, Queensland.
The Local Legends Awards, an ongoing tradition in Logan is a way to recognise volunteers, some who have been volunteering in the community for more than 20 years.
“It was a surprise to receive this nomination, and we aren’t sure why someone nominated us. We were just doing what we do,” Lyn stated. Michael and Lyn, who serve on their local Public Affairs Committee for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, received the recognition for the work they do to bring interfaith groups together in their community.
In the last year, Michael and Lyn held open houses at Mormon chapels inviting the community to learn more about their faith. They instigated and organised the Standing for Something award for former Mayor of Logan City, Pam Parker. Over 800 young adults gathered to honour the former Mayor. They joined together with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association organising donations for the Uniting Care Toy Drive at Christmas. They also meet together with interfaith groups to celebrate religious festivals.
Michael and Lynn continued their volunteer activities while Michael worked full time and Lyn continued her full time University studies and the additional volunteer work she participates in.
“All religions have the same end goal, to be of service to others where they can” Michael stated,during the presentation of their award. Although they are still unsure of who nominated them for the honour, Michael and Lyn feel privileged to be a shining light to the community and plan to continue their charitable efforts with other faith and community groups.