In the theme of balancing play with work, I volunteer for a couple of not-for-profit organisations. One of these is
Youngcare, which works hard to get young people with care needs, out of aged care and nursing homes and into appropriate accommodation where they can live their lives.
I came across this organisation a few years ago, and beyond walking past their Spring Hill premises from time to time, I hadn't done anything with them. Then, in a period of time "between paid jobs", I decided to volunteer my time with them.
My first volunteer shift was spent pulling apart return-to-sender mail. Part of their campaign asking for donations, they had a few letters returned, and my role, along with three or four other vollies, was to open the mail, and separate the contents, as some of the material could be used for future mail-outs. I was impressed by this re-use of material, and found the job satisfying and the comraderie great.
My next volunteer shifts (yes, plural) involved art and crafts, putting together "thank-you" frames which were being given to businesses who assisted with the construction and furnishing of the recently-opened Gold Coast apartments. It took a few return visits to get all the frames completed, but again, lots of satisfaction.
I've also volunteered at fundraising events - one being a luncheon, and another a golf day (pic above). Both were fun and it was great to know I've also helped the organisation raise much-needed money for services.
Whilst admin / office based volunteering work is based during business hours, there are other opportunities to get involved on evenings and weekends. Coming up, Youngcare will be at Oktoberfest, and (at the time of writing this article) have a number of volunteer shifts to fill. To register your interest in volunteering, please email info@youngcare.com.au or contact them by phone on 07 3041 3400.
