Local Glenwood St. John Ambulance Volunteer Honoured
Glenwood St John Ambulance volunteer and resident, Kevin Blanch, was honoured at Government House in Sydney on Friday 20 May at the St John Ambulance Australia (NSW) Investiture Ceremony.
16 St John Ambulance NSW members were awarded The Order of St John in recognition for going above and beyond to devote their time, effort, and expertise into helping others. Mr Blanch joined St John in 2011 and was appointed to Blacktown Division as a Chaplain. He has contributed over 4,000 hours in the provision of event health services. In addition, he has also provided counselling and advice for members.
In 2019, Mr Blanch was appointed to the Chaplaincy Executive, where he has been involved in policy development and implementation. He is an active ambassador for St John and the Chaplaincy team has benefitted from his willingness to be involved in member welfare.
Sarah Lance, CEO of St John Ambulance NSW, said that volunteers make up an essential part of the organisation and help make communities a better, and safer, place for all.
“These volunteers have made significant contributions to their communities through their ongoing dedication to St John Ambulance NSW. We are proud to honour them and recognise their ongoing commitment to service. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent flood crisis, they have been there for our communities with critical medical and mental health support, as events and gatherings return”.
In recognition of the awarded members, Commissioner of St John Ambulance NSW, Ilan Lowbeer said, “All of the members we have recognised today have demonstrated high levels of integrity and commitment to their communities, and to carrying out the mission of St John Ambulance NSW. We are proud to recognise each of them and thank them for their commitment to supporting our communities.
In 2021, over 2000 volunteers provided more than 65000 hours of community service to help build safer, and more resilient, communities.
To find out more about St John Ambulance NSW or to become a volunteer, please call 1300 ST JOHN or visit stjohnnsw.com.au
