Dilnaz Billimoria joined Volunteer West's National Volunteer Week Volunteer Engager Network gathering to share reflections on volunteering, inclusion and community connection. Bringing together around 50 community members and organisations from across Melbourne's west, the event sparked meaningful conversations about how volunteering continues to evolve.

A room filled with music, conversation and volunteers working side by side. During our visit to Vinnies Soup Vans in Kensington, Bill and Lenie shared how simple, consistent acts of kindness can help build a strong sense of community.

As we approach National Volunteer Week (18–24 May), we would like to share a small story about Wendy, a volunteer we met during our visit to Foodbank Victoria a couple of months ago.