Tasmanians urged to do more good

Tasmanians are being asked to put their “Hands Up For Humanity” and do more good across the state.

Australian Red Cross Tasmania State Director Sharon Wachtel said Red Cross would help people make a genuine difference through public events in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie, coinciding with National Volunteer Week in May.

“Our Hands Up For Humanity events will launch and showcase Red Cross’ 50 ways to do more good initiative and feature some of the 1100 Tasmanian Red Cross volunteers who are making a real difference in their communities and further afield,” Ms Wachtel said.

“We know that many people want to take humanitarian action and make positive contributions to society, but they don’t always know where to start. Our Hands Up For Humanity events will feature actions large and small, with something to suit everyone.”

Tasmanian Governor Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC and Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten are among those who will take part in the events.

Ms Wachtel said volunteers from a range of Red Cross programs would be at the events to explain their work and the rewards it delivered to community members and to the volunteers themselves.

The Red Cross MATES and Community Visitors Scheme* are celebrating their 25th and 30th anniversaries this year, and will be on hand to talk about the impact they have had building friendships and connecting people with their communities.

Other ways to “do more good” that will feature at the events include writing letters to aged care residents, folding paper cranes, and getting your household prepared for an emergency.

“Red Cross is tremendously proud of our 1100 Tasmanian volunteers, and these events will showcase their work and encourage other people to join their ranks, either as formal volunteers or through taking their own steps through 50 ways to do more good,” Ms Wachtel said.

“If you are inspired to make a difference but you don’t have the time to formally volunteer, 50 Ways to Do More Good provides quick and fun ways for you and your family to do good in your local community.

"You could support isolated older people through written letters, or learn how to open up conversations about mental wellbeing in your own friendship network. There are also ways to take action on climate impact, work toward reconciliation, or even consider giving blood.”

Details can be found at 50 ways to do more good

*MATES is a friendship program for people with diagnosed mental illness who are ready to reconnect with their community. The Community Visitors Scheme is a free service that pairs volunteers with older Tasmanians, helping them stay well, socially connected and independent.

Hands Up For Humanity event details:

Hobart
When:12 May
Where: University of Tasmania Courtyard, Elizabeth St
Guest speakers: Governor Barbara Baker and Red Cross volunteers

Launceston
When:17 May
Where: Launceston Civic Square
Guest speakers: Mayor Albert van Zetten and Red Cross volunteers

Burnie
When:18 May
Where: Marine Terrace Plaza
Who: Volunteering Tasmania and Red Cross volunteers

Media: Claire Wolczak, +61 0421 931 210, cwolczak@redcross.org.au; media@redcross.org.au, 1800 733 443.