International Day of volunteers: Message from Red Cross Society of Seychelles’ president Kisnan Tamatave and secretary general Marie-May Esparon |07 December 2020

‘Support volunteer efforts and recognise their contributions’

“On the occasion of International Volunteer Day, which falls on December 5, the Red Cross Society of Seychelles (RCSS) would like to celebrate the incredible efforts of all volunteers who freely give their time and expertise towards the well-being of our society and beyond.

“This year’s theme ‘Together we can, through volunteering’, calls for everyone, government, decision-makers to promote volunteering, support volunteer efforts and recognise the contributions of volunteers. It reiterates the importance of volunteering and impacts that are made and continue to make by committed individual to think of others less fortunate.

“The RCSS through its network of volunteers has been at the forefront of major events which have happened in the country this year; from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Providence landfill fires and the general elections. It is during those times, that we recognise and appreciate the true force of volunteers. Our national society boasts over 80 volunteers with diverse capacities, strengths, and of course challenges. Attracting volunteers in the national society and promoting opportunities for them is vital to our success. And without new recruits, the number of volunteers would gradually decline, eventually, our services and activities would simply be unable to function.

“The important contribution of Red Cross volunteers towards ensuring that the National Red Cross Society fulfills its auxiliary role in assisting government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic has been remarkable. Many of our volunteers are also facing economic difficulties and have managed their own issues in this difficult time, yet they find time and energy to contribute to society. They do it because they believe in the principle of voluntary service and find satisfaction knowing they have been able to contribute towards risks reduction, a peaceful community as well as alleviating human sufferings.

“It is also important to note that you don’t have to be a volunteer with the RCSS to provide assistance to those who are in need; a simple gesture, can go a long way towards making the lives of the vulnerable better.

“As a nation, we therefore need to value the contributions of volunteers and we take this opportunity to wish all Red Cross volunteers as well as other volunteers serving other organisations, A Happy Volunteers Day!”

Press release from the Red Cross Society of Seychelles