The benefits behind volunteering and how you can help
Why volunteer? Why exert effort when you get no salary in return?
As a student most likely earning minimum wage and with no time to spare amidst deadlines and packed university timetables, these may be the questions that you’re asking.
However, as Jessie J once said, “It’s not about the money”. Volunteering is a hugely positive experience and comes with variety of benefits, from boosting your mental and physical health and learning new skills to gaining valuable work experience.
While some volunteer roles may require some experience, there are already many exciting opportunities that potential volunteers can sign up for! No matter what your passion or your commitment levels we are sure that this list has something for everyone and encourage you to follow your interest and take part in this extremely rewarding experience.
Green is the New Black
Pollution poses a serious threat to our beloved earth’s survival. Our world’s beautiful environment is gradually being destroyed by man-made waste and itll only be a matter of time before an eco-apocalypse comes into realisation.
Instead of lamenting on the negatives, you can make a change today by being involved by volunteering for Victorian Landcare Gateway. Do your part by planting trees and help restore Mother Earth to her former glory.
For more info, look at Victorian Landcare Gateway volunteer page here.
Channel your inner Russell from ‘Up’
Volunteering in the Community Visitors Scheme won’t mean embarking on a journey in a flying house but you will get to be best buds with the elderly, just like Russell and Carl in Up. All you need to do is visit your elderly companion weekly or fortnightly and be there as a friend for them.
Pretty awesome way to earn your ‘Assisting the Elderly’ Wilderness Patch, right?
Do keep in mind though that you have to be 18 years or older to take part.
For more information and to sign up, visit Melbourne City Mission’s official website.
The Puppy Carer
You’d be lying if you said this wasn’t your dream job. Become a puppy carer by ensuring that you have a secure yard to allow a puppy inside your house, give the puppy lots of chance to socialise, and conduct basic training under the direction of a supervisor until the puppy is 12-15 months old, after which the puppy will fulfill its honorable duty as a guide dog for the blind.
It’s the perfect voluntary opportunity for pet lovers who cannot commit to one! Only students aged 18 and older will be considered for the role.
While it may sound daunting, much of it will be under the supervision of Vision Australia.
For more information and to see if your yard qualifies, visit the Vision Australia website.
Lead The Way
Every hero needs a mentor. There would not be Luke Skywalker without Obi-Wan Kenobi, Harry Potter without Albus Dumbledore, and successful young Australians without you.
Set aside one hour of your time each week for the iTrack Mentor program to share words of wisdom with students in Years 9 to 11 online, and you will have helped forge a path for future superheroes. Even better? You can do this from the comfort of your home. Please be advised that only students over 18 and over can participate.
To make a difference, even in your pajamas, check out The Smith Family’s website.
Mend a Broken Heart
Heart disease is like a monster under our bed: deadly silent in its lurking and ready to pounce when we least expect.
But fear not! Heart disease can indeed be resuscitated after its onset.
This should be a good enough reason for you to join this volunteering activity. Not only will you learn about first aid procedures, but you will also educate yourself about the common causes of heart disease and can help out in a range of voluntary positions and departments including administrative support, events, community engagement and more!
With this knowledge, you can assist others when they need it as well as reduce the incidence of heart disease by informing them its triggers.
For more information, visit the Heart Foundation’s website.