Volunteering

Australia is a unique nation when it comes to volunteering; giving your time for others or a cause.  The St Vincent de Paul Society is no different and volunteering your time for others is a great thing to do!

Volunteering for Vinnies in Australia is as broad as it is exciting!  Volunteering gives you experience, you are helping others less fortunate than yourself, and it makes you, and the person you are helping, feel good.

What does Volunteering in Vinnies Involve?

Being a volunteer for the St Vincent de Paul Society means that you dedicate some of your time to being involved in a Vinnies activity.

You will be expected to follow the Society's policies and procedures, and to take direction from the leaders of the activity.

Being a Volunteer is a commitment.  When you commit your time and energy to a Vinnies activity, you also have committed yourself to those whom we seek to assist, other volunteers and the Society.

Training and Support

For the Society's part, it will provide you with the training and support that you will need to be fully involved in Vinnies activities.  The Society is committed to training and formation of its members.  There is equal opportunity for everyone and the Society's youth programs are as broad as they are exciting.

You will be invited, and sometimes required, to attend a training session or sessions, before embarking on a new Vinnies activity.  These topics may be topics such as the Society's Policies and Procedures, Occupational Health and Safety, Duty of Care Guidelines, Communication Skills, and Behaviour Management of children. You may be asked to learn practical skills like undertaking driving classes for a Bus License or obtaining a First Aid Certificate or Bronze Medallion.

Formation

Additionally, regular formation programs are held for youth members.  These programs, reflections, retreats and gatherings include considerations of the Society?s history and spirituality, its values and purpose.  This formation is youth orientated, often developed and facilitated by your peers or young people with valuable skills. 

Your personal development is very important and the Society respects young volunteers and wished to provide you with every meaningful skill and support as is available and practical.  It is also a great way to increase your knowledge and to meet new friends.

How do I volunteer?

The first thing would be to think about it. What would you like to do? Does Vinnies share similar values as me?  What skills would I like to develop?  What does Jesus think? Take some time to reflect on this.

Each State and Region may have different procedures in regards to its volunteers.  Therefore, it is important that you receive information or meet in person with your state/region/conference representative to learn what the volunteering requirements are and what training is available for you.  After that, who knows what exciting opportunity awaits you!  

On this website you are linked with state youth sites.  When you visit them you will find practical and detailed information on volunteering for the Society.  Enjoy your search and welcome to the St Vincent de Paul Society.