Ed, International Volunteer Day (held on Monday, December 5) was a time for us to reflect on the immense contribution volunteers make to our society and thank them for all that they do. Red Cross is an organisation built on voluntary service, made up of 17 million volunteers worldwide. Volunteers help us save lives, build resilient communities, support people in disaster, and prevent and alleviate human suffering in times of war and conflict. Every day throughout the year our 35,000 members and volunteers in Australia improve the wellbeing of those who are experiencing extreme vulnerability. I can’t thank them enough for their time, energy and commitment, and I feel privileged to work alongside them. Voluntary service not only helps the recipients, but also the volunteers whose lives are enriched by the act of giving. We aim to build an inclusive, diverse and active humanitarian movement based on voluntary service. I strongly urge you to join our humanitarian movement and help your community by visiting redross.org.au/volunteering. Penny Harrison Director, Volunteering Australian Red Cross