Volunteering is good for everyone

VOLUNTEERING in the community plays a vital role in creating stronger, more connected neighbourhoods.

Not only does volunteering bring people together, but it also fosters kindness and supports those in need.

The mental health benefits associated with volunteering are well-documented.

Studies show that volunteering helps people who donate their time feel more socially connected, warding off loneliness and depression by making them feel part of something bigger than themselves.

However, a growing body of research suggests that people who give their time to others might also be rewarded with better physical health, including lower blood pressure and a longer lifespan.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, more than five million people volunteered through an organisation or group in 2022.

However, volunteering rates have gradually declined from around one-third of adults in 2002 to around one-quarter in 2022, so there’s never been a better time to volunteer.

For those passionate about history and local stories, the multi-award-winning National Wool Museum is a fantastic place to start. Volunteers play a key role in engaging visitors and bringing Geelong’s past to life.

If you enjoy mentoring and have driving experience, the L2P Program offers a meaningful way to support young people.

Volunteer mentors help learner drivers gain the required 120 hours of practice, helping them build confidence and independence on the road.

Family Services in Geelong also offers numerous roles that focus on supporting children’s growth and development.

Volunteers can engage in early childhood education programs, playgroups, and community events such as Children’s Week and National Playgroup Week.

If you are interested in people, are passionate about the area in which you live and would love to pass that experience on to visitors to our region, volunteering with Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine could be for you.

Volunteers share their knowledge and passion for the region, helping visitors experience the best of what Geelong has to offer.

For those passionate about the arts, the Potato Shed offers volunteer opportunities in theatre, where they can support performances, events and community activities in the multi-arts facility.

Volunteering provides young people an excellent chance to build leadership skills and gain work experience. It can also foster a sense of responsibility and engagement with their local area.

Study Geelong offers international students a unique opportunity to volunteer as Study Geelong Ambassadors.

Over 12 months, you’ll network with other international students, represent Study Geelong at events and promote the region as a study destination.

If you’re passionate about the environment, Geelong has a wealth of nature reserves that rely on volunteers for maintenance and conservation.

Nature volunteer groups assist in caring for more than 1400 hectares of land and make a genuine and visible contribution to our environment.

Whether you’re volunteering at the National Wool Museum, mentoring young drivers through L2P, or joining a nature group, you’ll gain new skills, make new friends and experience the health benefits of being active in your community.

For more information on any of these opportunities, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/volunteer

Troy Edwards

Acting chief executive officer,

City of Greater Geelong