The selfless act of volunteerism in sports

In a country like Papua New Guinea where sports has a very high following, it takes committed people to carry out its programs and activities.

These people are volunteers, they are people who give their time and efforts to help run programs and events so that other people can have the opportunity to participate.

To mark the International Volunteer Day which is observed on December 5 annually, the PNG Olympic Committee joins the rest of the world to acknowledge and thank all volunteers for their selfless contribution to sport and community development through their work.

The International Volunteer Day (IVD), mandated by the UN General Assembly, is held each year on 5 December. It is viewed as a unique chance for volunteers and organisations to celebrate their efforts, to share their values and to promote their work among their communities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), United Nations agencies, government authorities and the private sector.

This year’s theme is ‘Volunteer for an Inclusive Future’.

Secretary General of the PNG Olympic Committee, Auvita Rapilla, said most of the sports officials that run programs for their national federations are volunteers and do the work for the passion of their sport.

“Sport continues to grow and be promoted due do the dedication and commitment of these people,” said Rapilla.

“We believe in team work and this is captured in our values of Honesty, Excellence, Respect and Openness – they also reflect the spirit of volunteerism and we commend all the volunteers who give their time and effort in contributing to our nation’s development.

“From our volunteer Board members down to the dedicated coaches and officials who ensure sport is played throughout the country, all the way to the amazing mothers and fathers who volunteer their time and resources to support their children to participate in sport, the spirit of volunteerism is reflected at all levels of sport in PNG.”

She also acknowledged Team PNG athletes who also give a lot of their time to assist organising and carrying out events and activities hosted by the PNG Olympic Committee.

“Our HERO athletes and General Management Teams within our Team PNG delegations to international events are all volunteers as well and we share our success as an organisation, a team and a nation with them,” said Rapilla.

(Secretary General of the PNG Olympic Committee, Auvita Rapilla)

Author: 
Press release