Donna awarded Quota Volunteer of the Year

Bundaberg Quotarian Donna Somers has been recognised for 25 years of service with the Quota International 2019 Volunteer of the Year award.

The international award recognised Donna had embodied the spirit of volunteering, empowering others and changing lives throughout the year.

Quota International of Bundaberg president Jeannie Roberts said Donna became a member in 1994 and during that time she had willingly taken on executive rolls and shown leadership in assisting new members within the club by giving them guidance and support.

Jeannie said Donna also spent tireless hours coordinating the local Quota International of Bundaberg Student of the Year Quest by organising the caterers, and helping the judges and students during the interview stage of the competition.

“Her soothing and quiet manner helps to put the students at easy during this nervous time,” Jeannie said.

“Donna is a busy lady running her own business, but always has time to help those less fortunate and can be relied on for any Quota activity.”

Bus trips are driven by Donna

“In recent years Donna has volunteered her valuable time in being the sole coordinator for fundraising bus trips, which has members of the public return each year to support our causes,” Jeannie said.

“Her quite way of working tirelessly behind the scenes in ensuring sufficient numbers participate and accommodation and transport details are confirmed are to be commended.”

Quota International of Bundaberg publicity officer Jas Haster said Donna was a very hard-working and valued member of the organisation. 

“She has had many executive roles including president and secretary but is particularly involved with both our Student of The Year Quest and in organising our regular fund raising bus trips,” Jas said.

“Our bus trips, which Donna organises, really embody the essence of our club in having a lot of fun with friends while raising money for the community.

“The recent two-day annual bus trip to Brisbane with stops at Eumundi markets, DFO, Chermside and Brisbane City was a sell-out, with many regular returning each year for a girls weekend away. 

“This wonderful weekend raises valuable funds which assist many local causes.”

This year the bus trip raised $1000 which was donated to Bundaberg’s Make-A-Wish foundation.

Each year Quota International of Bundaberg also run a one-day bus trip to Eumundi Markets and the Sunshine Plaza, the next trip will be held on Saturday, 17 May.

Quota in the Bundaberg Region

Quota is a service club that particularly focuses on helping disadvantaged women and children and the deaf and hearing impaired but also supports other local causes.

Regular beneficiaries include Edon Place, Phoenix House, Share the Dignity and the RACQ Lifeflight Rescue Helicopter Service.

Quota holds a lunchtime meeting on the first Wednesday of each month, plus several social activities and fund raisers. New members are always welcome.

For enquires about meetings or the bus trip phone Jas 0427 369 139.