Volunteering

Volunteers play an integral role in the delivery of services at St. David’s Neighbourhood Centre and are a valued part of our organisation. Volunteering is a great way to keep active and involved in your community and in doing so enriching your life and touching others.

St David’s Neighbourhood Centre is an inclusive and supportive community, and we welcome volunteers of all ages, backgrounds and circumstances.

Volunteer opportunities are available in the following areas:

  • Thrift Shop – customer service, receiving and sorting donations
  • Harmony Club – centre based social activities for frail and older people , and younger people with a disability
  • Stay n Play Playgroup – assisting coordinator in set up/pack up, interacting with children and families
  • Office administration
  • Community projects and social support
  • Gardening and maintenance
  • Perhaps you have a special skill or interest that you would like to share?

FAQ’s

Here are a few of our frequently asked questions to assist you. However if you have any other questions please contact us.

Q: How old do I have to be to volunteer?
A: There is no minimum age. Young people under 15 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Q: Do you accept student placements?
A: We occasionally do take student placements however it depends on what time of the year and what our commitments are. Please contact us if you are looking for a student placement.

Q: Is there a minimum time commitment?
A: No – we understand that it is difficult to commit for a lengthy period of time. However we do encourage volunteers to stay for at least 2 months to gain the most benefit from the experience.

Q: When do volunteer programs run?
A: Programs run year round except for a few weeks over Christmas. The exception is Stay n Play which operates on the public school timetable.

Q: What clearances/checks do I need?
A: Every volunteer is required to obtain a BlueCard however we can assist you in applying for one. Playgroup and Harmony volunteers cannot start until the BlueCard has been approved. All volunteers must provide the contact details for two referees. Social Support volunteers require a police check.

Q: Why do I need to submit an application form and sign other documents? I’m just a volunteer.
A: In most legislation there is no distinction between paid workers and volunteers and therefore we are legally obliged to recruit and train volunteers as any organization would with paid workers. This also ensures greater legal standing for volunteers and a more integrated experience.

At St David’s Neighbourhood Centre, I immediately felt valued for the skills and knowledge that I did have, and was given plenty of opportunities to expand upon these skills and get experience… I really enjoyed working with the staff and the families at the Centre. It was a very welcoming place to volunteer and I felt part of a team.

Sophia O’Neill