Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens SC MP, is encouraging local residents to acknowledge the efforts of community members who give their time to help others, by nominating them for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.

Nominations for the program were opened today at Parliament House by the Minister responsible for volunteering, Ray Williams.

Mr Henskens said the contributions of local volunteers to the Ku-ring-gai community cannot be overstated.

“Every day, local residents from school students to senior citizens are tirelessly working to strengthen the fabric of our community by lending a hand to those who need it,” Mr Henskens said.

“I encourage residents to recognise a local who gives their time to help others by nominating them for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.”

Categories for the program include student volunteers, people who have made a significant volunteering effort, retired volunteers, people with more than 25 years of volunteering experience and people who have been volunteers for more than 40 years.

Minister Williams said the program acknowledges the efforts of citizens throughout the state.

“People who volunteer are happier, healthier and more connected to their communities,” he said.

Over 2.1 million people volunteer in NSW, contributing 240 million hours of their time, and adding an estimated $5 billion of value each year. The Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program celebrates the importance of volunteering and has recognised the hard work of more than 14,000 volunteers across NSW.

To nominate a volunteer for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program or for more information about volunteering in NSW please visit www.volunteering.nsw.gov.au.