Volunteering

Volunteer work is performing a task or supplying something by choice for a not-for-profit organisation or project without receiving payment.

Volunteering is a great way for young people to get involved with their community and to develop valuable skills. It provides opportunities for young people to increase self-confidence and feel good about what they are doing. Examples of volunteering experiences can also be an important element in a young person’s resume and portfolio.

If a student is interested in volunteering to impact the community in a positive way, there are several options available.  Looking online or visiting your local Volunteer Resource Centre (VRC) are great places to start.  Also, Volunteering WA offers free “Step into Volunteering” training, which answers many common questions about volunteering. 

Volunteering WA’s Enhancing Access Project facilitates people with barriers to volunteering into fulfilling positions, while taking into consideration their skills and needs.  Different levels of support are available, from making initial contact with a volunteer-involving organisation, to accompanying the volunteer on their first experience.  In some cases, a support volunteer can be provided for the first six weeks of volunteering.  This person’s role is to further facilitate the experience, and ensure that the volunteer is happy and comfortable.  The goal is to help the volunteer to become independent in their new position at the end of the six week period.

Volunteering Western Australia is the peak body for volunteering in Western Australia.

Australian Red Cross Community Action is an Australia-wide school-based program that introduces students to volunteering in their communities.

Australian Volunteer Search provides a way for volunteers to search for volunteer opportunities.

Passions, People and Appreciation: Making volunteering work for young people - A project exploring volunteering by young people aged 16-24 in Australia.

Volunteering Australia is the national peak body working to advance volunteering in the Australian community.