The great thing about voluntary work is that, whatever you want to do, there is so much choice. Whether your passion lies in tutoring the underprivileged, helping out at the RSPCA or the
Wilderness Society, or feeding the homeless, another pair of willing hands is always welcome.
I don't need to list all of its benefits, though it should be noted that voluntary work is both good for the soul
and looks great on resumes. It is an accessible and interesting way to gain work and life experience
and marketable skills, in areas such as retail or with animals. It is a chance to follow your passion, and help out the community at the same time.
There are a range of places and websites in Victoria (and all over the world) that pair a person up with their suited organisation or project. The website
Govolunteer for example, contains a large database of potential positions. In Melbourne, as anywhere, there are many opportunities available for all different skills and interests.
NGOs such as
St Vincent de Paul's and the
Salvation Army , have a range of activities for which you can volunteer, including op shops, tutoring services, soup vans, and emergency services all across Australia.
The
Sacred Heart Mission, in St Kilda, is also always in search of volunteers. A very dedicated organisation that seeks to help those living in poverty, the mission feeds the homeless 365 days a year. It offers the chance to help battle homelessness in Melbourne, whether it be through working in its numerous op shops, serving lunch at the dining hall, or kicking a footy with disadvantaged kids.
For those animal lovers out there, Victoria offers a plethora of opportunities to help- from the RSPCA to your local animal shelter. The Victorian branch of the
RSPCA offers volunteer and work experience, as well as internship programs, for those over 15.
Wildlife Victoria, whose shelters and connections help to save Victoria's native animals every day, relies on its volunteers and donations.
For both animals and the environment, conservation projects are plentiful, and a great way to help out our beautiful state. Whether it be campaigning for endangered creatures or cleaning our coasts, there is always work to be done. Find many such projects at the
Conservation Volunteer website.
This list is by no means an exhaustive one. There are scores of opportunities out there for those who want to volunteer, in many different areas. The only question now is: where?
