Dedicated volunteers making a difference

As part of National Volunteer Week (18 to 24 May), P&C Day (22 May) is an opportunity to recognise the incredible contributions volunteers make in our schools and wider community.

Just a couple of examples of selfless work come from Treeby Primary School P&C volunteer Amy Joncour, and North Woodvale Primary School’s P&C.

Parents, students and school staff at North Woodvale Primary School danced the night away during a 12-hour Discothon, that raised an amazing $20,000 for Telethon.

Brooke Mcilroy, from the P&C, was the creative mind behind the event.

“My daughter had brain cancer when she was three years old,” she said.

“She’s now nine and doing well, so I love the idea of being able to give back to the charities that helped us so much during her journey.

“I also love a dance and any excuse to dress up in costumes.

“I knew our school and community would rally behind the Telethon cause, but I honestly didn’t realise just how generous they could be.

“We have such an incredible school that has always been so supportive of my daughter’s journey.

“We’re also lucky to have a really supportive community. I love seeing everyone come together for a good cause.

"It’s a great feeling to know we can be a small part of helping so many people.”

Mrs Joncour has been volunteering in her community since she was young, so when her children started at Treeby Primary School, she naturally stepped into volunteering roles and eventually became part of the P&C.

Principal Jane Wescott said Mrs Joncour is an important part of the Treeby Primary School community.

“Amy has been a shining light of positivity, kindness, compassion, and support,” Mrs Wescott said.

“She epitomises our school’s belief in the importance of being ‘of service’ to others without expecting anything in return.

“Amy provides help and support, not only as a member of the P&C, but also in classrooms and during school events.”

Lisa Morgan, a parent at Treeby, said Mrs Joncour and her family are the heart of the school community.

“She represents what true community and friendship look like,” Mrs Morgan said.

“Her capacity to think about others is beyond anyone’s expectations.

“The small things she does are actually huge to the families around her. Sick kids missing out on the Mother’s Day stall, she organises personal deliveries.

“Creating community connection, she creates events like bingo nights at the community hall that are core memories for parents.”

Mrs Joncour said that in the Treeby P&C she had discovered a really dedicated group of people who genuinely care about the school community.

“The P&C is full of passionate, helpful people who generously give their time, energy, ideas and brain power to create opportunities and experiences for the kids,” she said.

“Whether it’s a disco, a special stall or even something small behind the scenes, seeing people enjoy it all makes the effort worthwhile.

“It’s never one huge event or achievement, it’s usually the little moments that stay with me most.

“I’ll always remember opening my Mother’s Day card from my daughter after helping with the school Mother’s Day stall. She wrote that my kindness is ‘as bright as the sun in the early morning’, that the way I help others is wonderful, and that she hopes to grow up to be just like me.

“Safe to say I absolutely cried reading it.”

“That moment really reminded me that volunteering isn’t just about organising events or helping behind the scenes, our kids are always watching how we show up for others and our community.

“If my children grow up understanding kindness, helping where you can, and supporting others, then that’s something I’ll always be proud of.”

Learn more about P&Cs on the WACSSO website.