What is a Volunteer?

A volunteer is a person of any age, race, sex or religion, who takes part in an activity:

Of their own free will

For the benefit of the community

For no financial repayment

What do volunteers do?

There are many activity areas where volunteers can participate. For example sport, education, health & welfare, community service, recreation, environment, emergency service and religion.

Why volunteer?

Volunteering is a great way to become involved in your community. At the same time it can provide you with opportunities to make new friends, learn new skills or use ones you already have. You might just want to try something new. Benefits also include, prevention of boredom and improving self-esteem.

Where do I find volunteer work?

After identifying an interest area you may:

Approach an organisation who could utilise this interest/skill

Find willing helpful assistance at your local volunteer referral agency

(Wimmera Volunteers Inc.)

 

Finding a job that’s right.

If a job requires more than your current level of skill, then specific training may be provided to ensure that you are confident in your work. Before taking on the job you need to be aware of what is expected. A written job description should clearly outline the duties and all related aspects of the position. Any questions should be raised with the organisations volunteer organiser.

Have you ever thought ……

I would like to have done that …...

I need to prepare myself for the time when the children leave home ……

Paid work isn’t an option for me, but I want something to do ……

I am bored and lonely ……

I want to make new friends ……

I need an outside interest ……

I need to get out of the house ……

I have been through a lot of pain and sadness and need a way of healing myself ……

I need to feel useful ……

Just because I am unemployed doesn’t mean that I have to be idle.

I want to spend time with my family but I would also like to use my training and experience.

 

VOLUNTEERING IS

Work that benefits the community.

Is undertaken of a person’s free will.

Without financial reward.

 

Volunteering provides the opportunity to:

Meet new people

Learn new skills

Enhance skills

Gain work experience

Share experience

Retain skills

Try something new

Develop self-esteem and confidence

Develop communication skills

Develop networks

Overcome boredom

Help others

Explore career opportunities

Put something back into the community

Have fun

 

Helping Communities Help Themselves