AFTER five years of unwavering dedication to The Pyjama Foundation, Townsville resident Susanne Gardner has been honoured in the 2020 Volunteering North Queensland Awards.

Sue took out the Volunteer Impact Award category, for her work touching the lives of more than 600 people throughout the Townsville community.

An extremely deserving acknowledgement for a woman who not only dedicates time every week to support a child in foster care, but is also fundamental in keeping The Foundation’s resource library organised for other volunteers, as well as acting as vice president of the Townville Toy Library, secretary of the Probus Club and volunteer at St Joseph’s Catholic School The Strand.

North QLD coordinator Mel Vaughan said above all Sue is an incredibly beautiful person who has a quiet wisdom and listens to the stories of others without judgement.

“We have a wide range of volunteers, from a range of backgrounds. Sue welcomes everyone into our Foundation with a smile. She has a quiet, calm presence and is a joy to be around,” she said.

Sue began her journey by training as a Pyjama Angel volunteer in 2016 and was initially placed with an 8- year-old boy to support him in building learning, life skills and confidence.

This little boy moved out of Townsville but that wasn’t going to be the end of Sue’s journey.

“His carer loved Sue so much she asked her the following week to continue visiting another child in her home,” Mel said.

“Of course, Sue agreed. Sue’s weekly visits help one little vulnerable girl know that she is special, loved and has opportunities- which is priceless.”

The award presented to Sue is part of 2020 National Volunteer Week celebrations occurring across the country.

Volunteering North Queensland’s acting manager Natalie Dukes said National Volunteer Week is an opportunity when we, as a North Queensland community, publicly thank, acknowledge and celebrate our wonderful volunteers.

“Throughout the nominations received for the four awards this year, there was such a strong theme of empowering others to make a difference.

Click here for more information about becoming a Pyjama Angel or to apply.