Brothers Tobey and Luke Thompson have volunteered for the World’s Biggest Garage Sale (WBGS) every year since 2015.
Aged 10 and 14, the St Laurence’s College students are passionate about volunteering their time for a good cause and giving back to the local community. “What inspires us to volunteer is the feeling of giving back to something bigger than ourselves,” Tobey said.
The boys are tasked with sorting donations, greeting donors, setting out chairs and tables and assisting with registering staff on the day of the event. Year 6 student Luke described volunteering alongside his older brother as “a lot of fun”. He said, “There is always a familiar face to talk to and help with tasks.”
Co-Founder and CEO of WBGS Yasmin Grigaliunas is impressed with the boys’ hard work, saying, “They have made a significant contribution, helping us raise almost $250,000 for charity in just two campaigns”.
In 2018, Tobey was nominated for the Queensland Youth Volunteering Award for ‘going above and beyond when volunteering at The World’s Biggest Garage Sale’. Tobey describes the nomination as an exciting experience. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a large event and being able to make a difference.”
Giving back to those in need and making a positive impact in the local community is an important element of the Catholic ethos at St Laurence’s College. The College’s Faith in Action program encourages students to build sustainable communities for the future through participation in social action and solidarity.
