PCYC Napranum youth celebrate their 2025 volunteering efforts at Barramunchies during National Student Volunteer Week. Photo: Supplied.
Although locals get so much fulfilment from being part of a small community, it is also important to give back to that same community, and Napranum kids are doing just that.
Young leaders at PCYC Napranum were celebrated for their volunteering efforts during National Student Volunteer Week this month with a special dinner at Barramunchies in Weipa.
Club manager Sergeant Rhonda Spence said PCYC Napranum strongly encouraged volunteering as a way for young people to develop a sense of pride, responsibility and belonging.
“By giving back to their community, they build valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which will support them in their future careers and personal lives,” she said.
“Volunteering also gives them the opportunity to show respect and gratitude to those who have supported them along the way, whether it’s Elders, family, or community members.
“We believe that when young people give their time to help others, they not only grow as individuals, but also contribute to building a stronger, kinder, and more connected community.”
Young leaders in the community have volunteered in a variety of ways throughout the year, including participating in club and beach clean-ups, delivering food to community members and Elders, cooking meals at the PCYC, and supporting community events with set-up, activities and welcoming attendees.
Thirteen-year-old Sophira Kris said she personally loved cooking dinner for the club’s After Dark program, as well as encouraging younger youth to participate in sports activities.
“I like it, because it’s fun to be in the kitchen, and I get to help make food for everyone, [and] I’ve also really enjoyed playing sports with the younger kids, and encouraging them to join in,” she said.
“Volunteering makes me feel really happy, because I know I’m doing something good, not just for myself but for other people, too.
“It feels nice to see people enjoying what I’ve helped with; I especially like doing cooking at PCYC, because I’m learning a skill that I’ll be able to use in the future, but at the same time, I’m helping others by making meals for everyone.”
Sergeant Spence said by giving young people opportunities to volunteer and get involved with their communities, they flourished with a strong sense of achievement and pride in what they contributed.
“Many of them walk away from these experiences with a sense of joy and fulfilment, which motivates them to continue volunteering in the future,” she said.
“Most importantly, it helps create a cycle of positive achievement – the more they give back, the more they want to stay involved, and the more they grow as respectful, responsible, and community-minded young leaders.”
