Matt and Natasha Hartly are just one example of family members who spend some of their quality time together as volunteers at their local Vinnies. Photo: Sophia Brady.
For the good-hearted but time-poor, students seeking work experience and families looking for quality ways to spend quality time, Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn’s summer volunteering opportunities might be just the ticket.
From sorting through donations to tidying items to be fit for sale, restocking shelves in one of 28 retail centres or helping customers shop, one thing makes the Vinnies volunteering experience invariably exciting.
“No two donations are the same,” Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn Volunteers Services Manager Brittany Campbell says.
“You’re always finding treasures, some of which you’ve never seen the likes of before, and that always brings an element of joy and excitement to the work.
“Our volunteers spend a lot of time researching the function and value of items.”
Volunteering opportunities start at age 10, with a parent or guardian to supervise and continue independently at age 15.
Brittany says there’s a kind of “magic” in introducing volunteering to people from a young age.
“They’re not just gaining practical experience and social connection, but also learning more about where we’re at in terms of sustainability and impacts of fast fashion on our environment,” she says.
“Because our retail activities support our good works, they’re also learning about community need and hardship.
“It broadens their perspective beyond what they see in their day-to-day lives.”
Vinnies volunteering shines on a resume, too – and not only because it demonstrates community values.
The work teaches fundamental skills valued in the workforce, such as teamwork, taking direction and working independently.
“You’re learning so much more than the skills required to do the work itself and supporting our good works while doing so,” Brittany says.
“For students, volunteering is a wonderful way to get a foothold in the workforce.”
But whether it’s research, merchandising, customer service, or any of the jobs in between, what people gain from volunteering far outstrips the skills of the role itself.
Not only is it a proven elixir for improved mental health and wellbeing, it’s also a social portal.
“Volunteers at Vinnies centres become part of a family. It’s a marvellous chance for socialising, community connection and networking,” Brittany says.
Summer is a particularly busy time for Vinnies retail stores with increased donations.
Volunteering opportunities at this time are ideal for anyone not in a position to commit long term.
“People work, study, they have family commitments – they’re time-poor, and we know that. Summer volunteering is a great chance to discover firsthand what we’re all about without an ongoing commitment,” Brittany says.
“And whether you volunteer for one summer, or for years, you’re a part of the Vinnies family, and you make a valuable contribution to something great.”
Vinnies summer volunteering opportunities run from October to February every year. To apply, fill out an application form online or email the volunteer services team directly at volunteer@vinnies-cg.org.au.
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