They were among more than 50 people who came together to celebrate International Volunteers Day.

The volunteers dined on finger food prepared by Canobolas Rural Technology High School hospitality students.

Community support services project worker Robyn Neal said Meals on Wheels was one of many volunteering groups represented at the event.

“We could not provide the service that we do cost effective to the community without the volunteers,” she said.

Good friends and Meals on Wheels partners Meg Burrell and Helen Ruggiero have volunteered together for more than 10 years.

“They’re [the clients] always glad to see you and you might well be there one day,” Mrs Ruggiero said.

The women are in the same ladies’ bowls club at Orange City Bowling Club and said the volunteering time is important to the community.

“I like meeting people and I think sometimes you’re the only one they see,” she said.

Mrs Neal said while around 50 volunteers attended, they are supported by more than 250 volunteers.

“The volunteers provide that vital link for isolated clients and people that are home,” she said.

“It’s an opportunity for us and Orange City Council to show our appreciation to our volunteers because they are a vital link to the community.”

There are many areas where volunteers are needed including the shopping service according to Mrs Neal.

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“The shopping service is an area where I’m always looking for volunteers,” she said.

“It’s where someone picks up a client and takes them out shopping.”

There are also volunteering opportunities in Telecare, the men’s group, community restaurant, craft groups and the sewing circle.

For more information about volunteering or to access services contact the HACC Centre on 6393 8970.

nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au

CITY PAYS TRIBUTE TO VOLUNTEERS