Armadale mayor Henry Zelones with Ben Boekholt.
Camera IconArmadale mayor Henry Zelones with Ben Boekholt. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

City of Armadale says thanks to volunteers with wreath gesture

Jessica NicoComment News

A SEVILLE Grove man who has dedicated the last 14 years of his life to volunteering has been recognised in a special Christmas initiative.

Since injuring his back in 2003, Ben Boekholt has spent his time volunteering with countless local organisations including the Armadale Police Rangers, Salvation Army, Rotary and Lions Club, Neighbourhood Watch, Foodbank and helping to feed emergency responders during bushfires.

The Citizen of the Year recipient is one of the volunteers whose faces have been placed on 40 wreaths hung in the Armadale CBD this Christmas as thanks for their dedication.

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“It’s great to see a smile on people’s faces; this morning I only helped a person out with a bag of food but to see their smile when they walked away was great,” Mr Boekholt said.

“I do all those organisations, all volunteer work, and I get blessed in different ways doing that.

“If I can help someone then I should do that.”

Armadale mayor Henry Zelones said the wreaths were an annual initiative that recognised the tireless work of local volunteers.

“Active community members bring the heart and soul to the place that we love to live and that travellers love to visit,” he said.

“As a council, we are fortunate to have so many local volunteers supporting the many community and emergency services and helping to make Armadale great.

“We believe it is important for other residents to know their face and name, so all volunteer efforts in the community can be acknowledged.

“Ben is one of many volunteers who support our efforts during the year, and he is a wonderful role model to the young people of our City.”

Call the Armadale Volunteer Services on 9394 5000 for more information on volunteering opportunities in the area.

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