VINNIES has thanked its Bendigo volunteers, describing them as the "frontline of the organisation".
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Speaking at a special lunch at the Foundry on Thursday, St Vincent de Paul volunteer development manager Hazel Maynard said their contribution was invaluable.
"Without them we couldn't function. They're not an added extra to the work of the paid staff. They are part of the society and the role of the paid staff is to support and guide them in what they do," Ms Maynard said.
The lunch coincided with National Volunteer Week.
Ms Maynard said there were about 7000 Vinnies volunteers across Victoria, 400 of those being in Bendigo.
She said roles ranged from helping out in the opp shops to working as part of the society's welfare services.
She said the theme of National Volunteer Week was Give Happy, Live Happy.
"It's about that two-way relationship," she said.
"Not only do we benefit from their volunteering, but the volunteers benefit from feeling part of their community and that participation. So there are physical and mental health benefits."
Joan Clark, who volunteers at the store in Chapel Street, was recognised for 20 years service at the lunch.
The 78-year-old said it was nice to be thanked.
"I do feel rather special getting 20 years. It's a long time," Ms Clark said.
"I enjoy going down there every Thursday. The friendships (you make) and everybody seems to get along. It has changed a lot over the 20 years of course - there are people who have come and gone."
Volunteer Erika Vaughan-Niven moved to Bendigo in 2011 and said the society gave her the opportunity to meet like-minded people.
"The people are wonderful, they are happy," she said.
"There isn't really a bad word said around the place and if it wasn't a good place you wouldn't go. It is a good way to meet people, make friends and you do get this buzz about being there.
"It's a good feeling, like you've done something good. You get tired because you're older but it's excellent."