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italityVolunteering SA&NT Inc.v
IYV+10 Launched by Governor GeneralMatching Volunteers to Recovery Tasks
Leaving an Imprint on WadeyeCooking Up a Cultural Storm
Japanese Students Volunteer
AUTU
MN
2011 Edition
Page 2 Page 1
CONTENTS
From the Desk of the CEO 1
From The Minister For Volunteers 2
Governor General Launches IYV+10 3
Thanks From Uniting Care 3
Matching Volunteers To Recovery Tasks 4
New Program Assists & Supports Seniors 4
Tri-State Games Return To The Hills 5
Japanese Students Volunteer 6-7
Cooking Up A Cultural Storm 8
A Day In The Life Of A Volunteer 9
Volunteers Share Their Stories 10
Helping Expose SA’s Heritage 11
Award For Golden Guru 12
Public Trustee Volunteers Grow Goodwill 13
Revegetating The Coorong 14
A Conversation On Succession Planning 15
Leaving An Imprint On Wadeye 16
Relay For Life In Alice Springs 17
Joy For Children With Disabilities 18
All About FairTrade 18
Special Olympics Goes Greek 19
Event Of The Year Award For Local Group 19
Training News 20
Resthaven Wins Coveted Award 20
VSA&NT Partners 21
Volunteering SA&NT Inc.Head Office1st Floor Torrens Building 220 Victoria SquareAdelaide SA 5000
www.volunteeringsa.org.auBOARD: Janet Stone (Chairman), Tim Jackson (Deputy Chair), Mark Witham (Treasurer), Bruce Hammond, Evelyn O’Loughlin, Karen Buenger, Richard Geyer, Joe Capozza, Patrizia Kadis.CEO: Evelyn O’Loughlin.
EDITOR:Denese Wyatt - [email protected]
STAFF: Annette Barlow, Melissa Chin, Courtney Davidson, Louise Dreosti, Liam Hanna, Sue Keith, Jim Kesting, Jo Larkin, Sascha Loffler, Kaye Mahomet, Naomi Offler, Martyn Paxton, Shirley Terrell, Alex Werchon, Anna Williamson, Denese Wyatt, Dominic Nicholls, Robyn Toi.
VOLUNTEERS:Amin Abdul Aziz , Lynette Bacon, John Carli, Dianne Casey, Socheat Chak, Melissa Chin, Sanja Duka, Pam Evans, Robi Fernandez, Mark Fielder, Richard Geyer, Diane Griffin, Paul Keady, Janis Kerr, Brian Leverett, Erica Majba, David Maxwell, Tony Mitchell, Stephen Moller, Lesley O’Loughlin, Jane Osborn, Joe Rankoff, Jo Swiggs, Shirley Terrell, Ellen Tindale, Laine Turner, Bob Watson, Daniel Wilkinson, Mohammed Zaman, Maya Cenic.
CONSULTANTS:Eleonora Zappia & Associates, EPAC Salary Solutions, Bliss Web Engine, Business SA, Community Sector Business Services, Strategic Matters, Ariel Printing, Pride Business Solutions Pty Ltd, Volunteering WA, Urban Umbrella Marketing, Moira Deslandes, Teresa Forest, Jo Swiggs, Alchemy Training, Jennifer Adams Consulting, Angela DeConno, Erica Majba, Liam Hanna.
GOLDEN GURUS:Erica Majba, Colleen Moyne, Peter Rochman, Raema Mahony, Christine Leonard, Sandra Powell, Jerry Adams, Pieter Hoogland, Caroline Phillis, Wendy Bruce,Sandra Richards, Dianne Potter, Beryl Lester, Jo Swiggs, Carol Ward, Trevor O’Brien, Cecilia Cubillo, Fuzzy Trojan, Susan Colgate, Margaret Granger.
STUDENTS:Kim Cuthbertson, Samantha Carter, Simon Sicong Wang.
PARTNERS: Aboriginal Reference Group Bruce Hammond, Herb Mack, Ken Liddle, Maxine Turner, Lenore Chantrelle, Fiona Coulthard-Stanley, Elizabeth Hurrell, Jessica Koolmatrie, Anna Caponi.
© Volunteering SA&NT Inc. ABN 82 279 275 584. Articles may be reproduced providing copyright is acknowledged. Publishing date May 2011.The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily shared by Volunteering SA&NT Inc.
Cover: Children Enjoy A Community Garden
Deadline for Winter2011 Edition
Bookings & Artwork June Distribution July 2011
Subscribe to Volunteering SA&NT’s quarterly Magazine.
[email protected] phone 08 8221 7177
IN THIS ISSUE
29
11
6
18
20
From the Desk of the CEO
Why celebrate the 10th anniversary of United Nations International Year of the Volunteer?
In October 2009, United Nations Volunteers (UNV) brought together a diverse group of civic, business, governmental and VIO’s which resulted in the adoption of a Global Action Plan for IYV+10. This year UNV has continued to convene multi-stakeholder discussions and Volunteering Australia has been an integral part of this process.
Throughout 2011, UNV will partner with different stakeholders to exchange and develop ideas and actions for raising awareness about volunteerism; acknowledging the importance of the work already achieved and identifying areas where greater efforts are needed. To provide more in-depth understanding of the value and breadth of volunteerism, UNV is preparing the 'State of the World's Volunteerism Report', which will be launched in late 2011.
Our own numerous IYV+10 celebratory events and activities will occur throughout the course of 2011 and will centre on one of our key strategic goals of collaboration and partnership. For example, on 2nd June 2011, in partnership with Northern Volunteering SA, Southern Volunteering SA and Limestone Coast Volunteer Resource Centre, we are hosting a Master-class with Susan J. Ellis, an International Volunteer Expert from the USA.
Susan was last in Adelaide in 2003 and back then she noted … “No one in volunteer management is isolated any more. While we may still be the only person in our organization to focus on volunteers, we are not alone. The Web has made it possible for us to interact with colleagues everywhere and we are doing so with generosity and enthusiasm. Our exchange network grows as the world shrinks.”
Eight years on and ‘Social Media’ has supplemented our ability to “think globally and act locally”. Taking full advantage of new
Page 2 Page 1
CONTENTS
From the Desk of the CEO 1
From The Minister For Volunteers 2
Governor General Launches IYV+10 3
Thanks From Uniting Care 3
Matching Volunteers To Recovery Tasks 4
New Program Assists & Supports Seniors 4
Tri-State Games Return To The Hills 5
Japanese Students Volunteer 6-7
Cooking Up A Cultural Storm 8
A Day In The Life Of A Volunteer 9
Volunteers Share Their Stories 10
Helping Expose SA’s Heritage 11
Award For Golden Guru 12
Public Trustee Volunteers Grow Goodwill 13
Revegetating The Coorong 14
A Conversation On Succession Planning 15
Leaving An Imprint On Wadeye 16
Relay For Life In Alice Springs 17
Joy For Children With Disabilities 18
All About FairTrade 18
Special Olympics Goes Greek 19
Event Of The Year Award For Local Group 19
Training News 20
Resthaven Wins Coveted Award 20
VSA&NT Partners 21
© Volunteering SA&NT Inc. ABN 82 279 275 584. Articles may be reproduced providing copyright is acknowledged. Publishing date May 2011.The opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily shared by Volunteering SA&NT Inc.
Subscribe to Volunteering SA&NT’s quarterly Magazine.
[email protected] phone 08 8221 7177
From the Desk of the CEOCEO REPORT
Why celebrate the 10th anniversary of United Nations International Year of the Volunteer?
In October 2009, United Nations Volunteers (UNV) brought together a diverse group of civic, business, governmental and VIO’s which resulted in the adoption of a Global Action Plan for IYV+10. This year UNV has continued to convene multi-stakeholder discussions and Volunteering Australia has been an integral part of this process.
Throughout 2011, UNV will partner with different stakeholders to exchange and develop ideas and actions for raising awareness about volunteerism; acknowledging the importance of the work already achieved and identifying areas where greater efforts are needed. To provide more in-depth understanding of the value and breadth of volunteerism, UNV is preparing the 'State of the World's Volunteerism Report', which will be launched in late 2011.
Our own numerous IYV+10 celebratory events and activities will occur throughout the course of 2011 and will centre on one of our key strategic goals of collaboration and partnership. For example, on 2nd June 2011, in partnership with Northern Volunteering SA, Southern Volunteering SA and Limestone Coast Volunteer Resource Centre, we are hosting a Master-class with Susan J. Ellis, an International Volunteer Expert from the USA.
Susan was last in Adelaide in 2003 and back then she noted … “No one in volunteer management is isolated any more. While we may still be the only person in our organization to focus on volunteers, we are not alone. The Web has made it possible for us to interact with colleagues everywhere and we are doing so with generosity and enthusiasm. Our exchange network grows as the world shrinks.”
Eight years on and ‘Social Media’ has supplemented our ability to “think globally and act locally”. Taking full advantage of new
and emerging technologies and communication tools will be one of our ongoing challenges.
In January I was fortunate enough to have attended the 21st IAVE World Volunteer Conference, held in Singapore. The theme of 'Volunteering to Change the World,' took discussions to a higher level, while focussing on leadership, strategic partnerships and positioning volunteers where they can 'change the world.'
At the Conference the International Labour Organisation and Johns Hopkins University announced the release of the United Nations auspiced ‘Manual on the Measurement of Volunteer Work’, the first-ever internationally sanctioned guidance to statistical agencies for generating reliable, official data on volunteer work using a common definition and approach. The definition agreed upon by the 37 participating countries including Australia, is “Unpaid non-compulsory work; that is, time individuals give without pay to activities performed either through organisations or directly for others outside their own household.” Completion of the manual specifically coincides with IYV +10 and its implementation may prove challenging for participating governments.
Also launched at the Conference was a report on the ‘Global Corporate Volunteering Research Project’, by IAVE's Global Corporate Volunteer Council. The research project findings will help companies extend and strengthen their employee volunteer programs, as well as strengthen employee volunteering worldwide.
IYV+10 initiatives like those outlined above, undoubtedly enable us to showcase our extraordinary achievements. Let’s work together to make the most of what this year offers us.
Evelyn O’Loughlin
CEO, Volunteering SA&NT
IYV+10 - Inspiring the Volunteer in You.
“IYV+10 ....offers an exceptional opportunity to join a global effort to reinvigorate the spirit of volunteerism.”
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Peter Cocks, National Communications Manager, Volunteering Australia
News From Volunteering Australia
The Pilgrim Church Pancake Day Committee would like to say ‘Thank You’ for your order for ‘Pancakes on the Run’. As a result we have been able to forward $2,423.00 on your behalf to UnitingCare.
Through its agencies and schools UnitingCare demonstrates its commitment to supporting vulnerable members of our community and the importance of engaging all people in advocating for a better world. The donations and funds raised help UnitingCare overcome poverty and disadvantage and assist UnitingCare agencies to provide practical support to people in need including people without a home, abused and
Thanks For Pancakes On The Run From Uniting Care
IYV+10 Launched by Governor GeneralHer Excellency The Governor-General of Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce launched IYV+10 at a reception at Admiralty House in Sydney on 14th February. About 100 guests attended including a small group of volunteers from Queensland and Victoria who joined local NSW volunteers at the event.
The launch was also attended by Minister Tanya Plibersek, and The Hon Bronwyn Bishop representing the Leader of the Opposition.
The Governor General spoke and VA President, Paul Lynch, responded on behalf of Volunteering Australia and the volunteers present.
Volunteering Australia would like to acknowledge and thank Virgin Blue who flew our volunteers from Queensland and Victoria to the launch event and Bayview Boulevard Hotel who provided accommodation. We are very grateful to both organisations for their support. We would not have been able to have those two groups with us without this support.
Don’t forget to tell the world what you are doing for IYV+10 by registering your event on the VA Events Calendar. That can also include your National Volunteer Week events.
Visit the Australian IYV+10 celebration website at:
www.iyvplus10.com.au
MINISTER FOR VOLUNTEERS
A Message from the Minister
2011 marks the 10th anniversary of the United Nations proclaiming 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers (IYV+10). Reflecting on these last ten years, it is pleasing to see the many advances made to support volunteerism, and the emergence of strong partnerships between the community, government and corporate sectors.
Volunteering is bound tightly into our sense of society and South Australian communities can be proud of their strength and resilience, and the strong values in which they continue to grow from. After all, volunteering is another way of describing community participation which in itself communicates a caring, compassionate, enthusiastic and engaged neighbourhood in which people want to live and work.
If we acknowledge volunteerism as a sign of a great place to live, then South Australia is undoubtedly up there with the best of them. Today, more than 830,000 South Australians donate their time in some way, contributing more than $5 billion a year to our state economy. Whether it is delivering meals, helping others in an emergency, patrolling our beaches, running our sporting clubs or supporting the needs of others, volunteers make a real difference to our lives and to the community in which we live.
There is little doubt, all of our lives are richer for the efforts so freely given of volunteers and I encourage people to promote this tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers as an opportunity to celebrate our success of an engaged and caring society.
In honour of this year’s anniversary celebrations, the Government’s popular annual Volunteer Support Fund grant program has been expanded to include new criteria.
In addition to supporting requests for volunteer training and resources, applications will also be accepted for organisations wishing to host an IYV+10 volunteer-recognition event in their local community.
As many of you would know we are fast approaching June when we host our very exciting free Volunteers Day concert. I am pleased to confirm that the celebration will feature performances direct from the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and be dotted with the humorous insights of Mr Peter Goers as emcee.
Registrations to attend this popular event will be able to be made through the Office for Volunteers website shortly after Easter at www.ofv.sa.gov.au.
A feature of the event will again include recognising outstanding efforts in volunteering through the presentation of the Joy Noble Medal, the Premier’s Business Award in Volunteering, and the Andamooka Community Project Award. Nominations to these prestigious awards are now open.
I look forward to joining all South Australians this National Volunteer Week (9-15 May), and South Australia’s Volunteers Day (13 June), to celebrate the outstanding contribution that volunteers make to the community.
Your hard work, passion and dedication is an inspiration to us all and helps make our state a wonderful place to live.
Hon Grace Portolesi MP
Minister for Volunteers
The next round of the Volunteer Support Fund will open in July 2011 and will have new eligibility criteria to support IYV+10 volunteer recognition events! For further information on the Volunteer Support Fund please contact the Office for Volunteers by phoning 8463 4490 or emailing [email protected]
Volunteering is bound tightly into our sense of society and South Australian communities can be proud of their strength and resilience, and the strong values in which they continue to grow from.
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VOLUNTEERING AUSTRALIA
Peter Cocks, National Communications Manager, Volunteering Australia
News From Volunteering Australia
The Pilgrim Church Pancake Day Committee would like to say ‘Thank You’ for your order for ‘Pancakes on the Run’. As a result we have been able to forward $2,423.00 on your behalf to UnitingCare.
Through its agencies and schools UnitingCare demonstrates its commitment to supporting vulnerable members of our community and the importance of engaging all people in advocating for a better world. The donations and funds raised help UnitingCare overcome poverty and disadvantage and assist UnitingCare agencies to provide practical support to people in need including people without a home, abused and
vulnerable children and adults, the frail aged, families in crisis and those with disabilities.
We are reviewing our management of ‘Pancakes on the Run’ and would appreciate your comments to assist us in making future events even more successful.
Feedback may be forwarded to:
[email protected] or [email protected]
Sincerely
Pat Button for the ‘Pancakes on the Run’ Committee.
Thanks For Pancakes On The Run From Uniting Care
IYV+10 Launched by Governor GeneralHer Excellency The Governor-General of Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce launched IYV+10 at a reception at Admiralty House in Sydney on 14th February. About 100 guests attended including a small group of volunteers from Queensland and Victoria who joined local NSW volunteers at the event.
The launch was also attended by Minister Tanya Plibersek, and The Hon Bronwyn Bishop representing the Leader of the Opposition.
The Governor General spoke and VA President, Paul Lynch, responded on behalf of Volunteering Australia and the volunteers present.
Volunteering Australia would like to acknowledge and thank Virgin Blue who flew our volunteers from Queensland and Victoria to the launch event and Bayview Boulevard Hotel who provided accommodation. We are very grateful to both organisations for their support. We would not have been able to have those two groups with us without this support.
Don’t forget to tell the world what you are doing for IYV+10 by registering your event on the VA Events Calendar. That can also include your National Volunteer Week events.
Visit the Australian IYV+10 celebration website at:
www.iyvplus10.com.au
National Conference on Volunteering 2011 - Inspire. Challenge. Influence. Volunteering Australia is pleased to announce the theme of the National Conference on Volunteering: Inspire. Challenge. Influence. to be held from 9th - 11th November 2011, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, QLD.
The conference will be a highlight of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers (IYV+10) providing an opportunity for delegates to celebrate volunteering, discuss key emerging trends, initiate new strategies, and identify and examine ways to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the sector.
The conference theme Inspire. Challenge. Influence. builds on last year's conference and also links with the United Nations IYV+10 theme of Inspiring the Volunteer in You. IYV+10 is a timely reminder that we need to work to continually improve all aspects of volunteering.
With a number of major changes underway in the Not-For-Profit sector, there is a unique and important opportunity for volunteers, and the people and organisations that manage volunteers, to play an influencing role in the direction and creation of communities and society.
The National Conference on Volunteering will draw together papers, workshops and ideas that Establish, Develop, and Analyse volunteering in Australia.
We are looking forward to opening the Call for Abstracts next week and the early bird registration.
For more information on the Conference please go to :
www.volunteeringaustralia.org/conference
A Message from the Minister
In addition to supporting requests for volunteer training and resources, applications will also be accepted for organisations wishing to host an IYV+10 volunteer-recognition event in their local community.
As many of you would know we are fast approaching June when we host our very exciting free Volunteers Day concert. I am pleased to confirm that the celebration will feature performances direct from the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and be dotted with the humorous insights of Mr Peter Goers as emcee.
Registrations to attend this popular event will be able to be made through the Office for Volunteers website shortly after Easter at www.ofv.sa.gov.au.
A feature of the event will again include recognising outstanding efforts in volunteering through the presentation of the Joy Noble Medal, the Premier’s Business Award in Volunteering, and the Andamooka Community Project Award. Nominations to these prestigious awards are now open.
I look forward to joining all South Australians this National Volunteer Week (9-15 May), and South Australia’s Volunteers Day (13 June), to celebrate the outstanding contribution that volunteers make to the community.
Your hard work, passion and dedication is an inspiration to us all and helps make our state a wonderful place to live.
Hon Grace Portolesi MP
Minister for Volunteers
The next round of the Volunteer Support Fund will open in July 2011 and will have new eligibility criteria to support IYV+10 volunteer recognition events! For further information on the Volunteer Support Fund please contact the Office for Volunteers by phoning 8463 4490 or emailing [email protected]
Page 4 Page 5
Athletes with disabilities across South Australia are preparing ahead of the twenty fifth Tri-State games which will be held in the Adelaide Hills in November this year.
The first Tri-State began in 1986 in Mildura as a competition where people with disabilities came together to compete against and socialise with their peers. Since then the games have grown into an annual event and have become the largest ‘grass roots’ athletic competition for people with disabilities in Australia.
Disability organisations across SA, Victoria and New South Wales will send their teams to compete in sports such as swimming, table tennis and basketball. New events proposed for this year’s games include sit down volleyball and butterfly as a swimming event.
But in order for the games to run smoothly, the work of volunteers is essential. Tri-State Chairperson Sean Hames recognises the important role volunteers will play during the games.
“Volunteers play a huge part, because without them the games wouldn’t exist” he said. “Aside from helping with things like catering, the volunteers are out there with stopwatches recording the times and acting as marshals.”
The Tri-State committee is also made up of volunteers providing their own time towards operating the games behind the scenes. Mr Hames devotes his personal time towards helping organise the games when he isn’t busy as manager of
Tri-State Games Returning To The Hills Jarrad Delany, Volunteer, Hills Volunteering
Matching Volunteers to Recovery Tasks Susan Maiorana, Senior Project Officer, DFC.
DFC
In the meantime the Department for Families and Communities (DFC) encourages people interested in volunteering to keep their First Aid, and other relevant qualifications and skills up to date.
You may also like to consider becoming a volunteer with other vital service organisations such as the State Emergency Services, St John Ambulance, Australian Red Cross or the Country Fire Service. Look for links to other key organisations on the DFC, Ask Just Once or Volunteering SA&NT websites.
If you have any queries about VERIS or about volunteering after an emergency please contact the
DFC Volunteers Unit on 1300 885 068
We have all seen and been moved by the effects of the floods, cyclones, fires and emergencies around the country and overseas in recent months. For those who live in the affected areas these events have had a direct impact on their lives. Many have lost homes, property, businesses and even more tragically, family members and friends.
It has been wonderful to observe the outpouring of support from people all over the country who are looking for ways to support people affected by the disaster. People want to assist within their local community and also look for opportunities to volunteer in a broader capacity.
Fortunately this summer, South Australia has ‘escaped’ any significant tragedies and we are all very grateful for this. The
Starting up any new volunteer-based program is always a challenge but the upside is that you often meet the most fascinating and interesting people volunteering.
The new Seniors Wise SA program will provide assistance and support for seniors: presentations to older people regarding support services; community education to raise awareness of seniors’ issues and the worth of older people; home visits to assist seniors with their information requirements; certifying businesses as ‘senior friendly’.
One of our first volunteers is Ian, whose wife visited our Rundle Mall display late last year. Ian had recently finished working as a State Manager for a large national company and was looking for something to occupy his time and jumped at the opportunity to contribute his enthusiasm and years of life experience to a new program.
Ian is learning more about the services available to assist seniors and is looking forward to his first ‘solo’ presentation where he can share his newly-found knowledge. “People need to be aware of the services available to them, otherwise they can’t make an informed decision”, he says with a passion. “And as I’ve always said, ‘Knowledge is power’. And boy, am I going to empower people – just watch me!”
Seniors Wise SA needs more volunteers like Ian – friendly, open to learning, who like talking to older people, able to listen but also clearly impart information.
Find out more about this exciting new initiative at one of our monthly Information Days. These are held at our office on Level 2, 76 Waymouth St. The sessions run from 9.30am to 2.30pm with a light lunch provided. Booking are essential, tel. 8168 8708.
New Program Assists and Supports Seniors Val Pylypenko, Seniors Wise SA Coordinator Information
fires on Eyre Peninsula are very recent memories and we recall how devastating those events were for the local communities.
The South Australian government is forever mindful of the potential for disasters in SA and how it can best support communities impacted by such events. After the Eyre Peninsula fires in 2005 the government developed a web based system which registers spontaneous volunteers. The Volunteer Emergency Recovery Information System (VERIS) matches volunteers to recovery tasks which are registered by people affected by the disaster.
Once people have registered their interest in volunteering on-line, they will be sent regular updates and communication about how best they may be able to support people in the affected area. As VERIS is only activated during the recovery phase of an emergency event it is not possible to ‘pre–register’ an interest in volunteering.
In the event VERIS is activated members of the general public can access VERIS and register their details on the government’s (Ask Just Once) website www.sa.gov.au/VERIS. There will be other information about the emergency and useful services on this site.
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DISABILITY SPORTS
Athletes with disabilities across South Australia are preparing ahead of the twenty fifth Tri-State games which will be held in the Adelaide Hills in November this year.
The first Tri-State began in 1986 in Mildura as a competition where people with disabilities came together to compete against and socialise with their peers. Since then the games have grown into an annual event and have become the largest ‘grass roots’ athletic competition for people with disabilities in Australia.
Disability organisations across SA, Victoria and New South Wales will send their teams to compete in sports such as swimming, table tennis and basketball. New events proposed for this year’s games include sit down volleyball and butterfly as a swimming event.
But in order for the games to run smoothly, the work of volunteers is essential. Tri-State Chairperson Sean Hames recognises the important role volunteers will play during the games.
“Volunteers play a huge part, because without them the games wouldn’t exist” he said. “Aside from helping with things like catering, the volunteers are out there with stopwatches recording the times and acting as marshals.”
The Tri-State committee is also made up of volunteers providing their own time towards operating the games behind the scenes. Mr Hames devotes his personal time towards helping organise the games when he isn’t busy as manager of
Tri-State Games Returning To The Hills Jarrad Delany, Volunteer, Hills Volunteering
the Mount Barker Family House.
Tri-State project officer Debi Gobbett said the work the committee members are able to put into the games each year are also essential to its success. “If the committee didn’t do the planning and organising the games would never happen, which would be horrible because everyone looks forward to it every year” she said.
The Tri-State organisation is always looking for sponsors and the communities involved to support the games in any way they can, especially as the games continue to grow each year. From the nearly 100 athletes in 1986 it has grown to over 300 now competing in the games.
Chairperson Sean Hames said the goal of the games is to ensure people with disabilities are active in sport.
“Statistics show that less than 5% of people with disabilities are considered to be living a healthy, active lifestyle and that identifies the importance of the Tri-State Games” Sean Hames
“Because it’s an annual event it gives people an opportunity to prepare for something they know is going to happen and the teams can ensure they can train for it.”
To find out more about sponsorship and volunteering for the games, contact the Mount Barker family house on 8391 2747.
Above: Tri-State project officer Debi Gobbett with Chairperson Sean Hames.
Matching Volunteers to Recovery Tasks Susan Maiorana, Senior Project Officer, DFC.
In the meantime the Department for Families and Communities (DFC) encourages people interested in volunteering to keep their First Aid, and other relevant qualifications and skills up to date.
You may also like to consider becoming a volunteer with other vital service organisations such as the State Emergency Services, St John Ambulance, Australian Red Cross or the Country Fire Service. Look for links to other key organisations on the DFC, Ask Just Once or Volunteering SA&NT websites.
If you have any queries about VERIS or about volunteering after an emergency please contact the
DFC Volunteers Unit on 1300 885 068
Starting up any new volunteer-based program is always a challenge but the upside is that you often meet the most fascinating and interesting people volunteering.
The new Seniors Wise SA program will provide assistance and support for seniors: presentations to older people regarding support services; community education to raise awareness of seniors’ issues and the worth of older people; home visits to assist seniors with their information requirements; certifying businesses as ‘senior friendly’.
One of our first volunteers is Ian, whose wife visited our Rundle Mall display late last year. Ian had recently finished working as a State Manager for a large national company and was looking for something to occupy his time and jumped at the opportunity to contribute his enthusiasm and years of life experience to a new program.
Ian is learning more about the services available to assist seniors and is looking forward to his first ‘solo’ presentation where he can share his newly-found knowledge. “People need to be aware of the services available to them, otherwise they can’t make an informed decision”, he says with a passion. “And as I’ve always said, ‘Knowledge is power’. And boy, am I going to empower people – just watch me!”
Seniors Wise SA needs more volunteers like Ian – friendly, open to learning, who like talking to older people, able to listen but also clearly impart information.
Find out more about this exciting new initiative at one of our monthly Information Days. These are held at our office on Level 2, 76 Waymouth St. The sessions run from 9.30am to 2.30pm with a light lunch provided. Booking are essential, tel. 8168 8708.
New Program Assists and Supports Seniors Val Pylypenko, Seniors Wise SA Coordinator Information
fires on Eyre Peninsula are very recent memories and we recall how devastating those events were for the local communities.
The South Australian government is forever mindful of the potential for disasters in SA and how it can best support communities impacted by such events. After the Eyre Peninsula fires in 2005 the government developed a web based system which registers spontaneous volunteers. The Volunteer Emergency Recovery Information System (VERIS) matches volunteers to recovery tasks which are registered by people affected by the disaster.
Once people have registered their interest in volunteering on-line, they will be sent regular updates and communication about how best they may be able to support people in the affected area. As VERIS is only activated during the recovery phase of an emergency event it is not possible to ‘pre–register’ an interest in volunteering.
In the event VERIS is activated members of the general public can access VERIS and register their details on the government’s (Ask Just Once) website www.sa.gov.au/VERIS. There will be other information about the emergency and useful services on this site.
Page 6 Page 7
Engaging Japanese Students In Volunteering ... Continued
I could not have achieved any of this without the support of the staff and volunteers at VSA&NT, the staff of the English Language Centre, Professional & Continuing Education (PCE) who were so devoted to the students, the Volunteer Managers and volunteers who were so generous with their time and resources and the Professors who had a desire to explore volunteer opportunities for the students.
What an emotional, sad time it was when the final 10 students left to return to Japan.
It was such a pleasure to be involved with this program and I have made so many wonderful friends. I am in awe of the many volunteer managers and volunteers who assisted us with this project as they went out of their way to offer us lunch, provide equipment and make us welcome. - so thank you.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Engaging Japanese Students In Volunteering Kaye Mahomet, Manager, Sector Support and DevelopmentMatthew Rawes and Tae Ono from The English Language Centre, Professional & Continuing Education(PCE), University of Adelaide met with me in 2010 to discuss the possibility of VSA&NT assisting Japanese University Students to engage in volunteer activities while on a study tour in South Australia. The 37 students from Ritsumeikan and Kansai Universities were keen to expand their English Language skills, meet local people and visit our wonderful State. The study tour was scheduled for February and March 2011.
When Evelyn O’Loughlin, CEO, VSA&NT agreed that I could work on the project, I engaged the assistance of two amazing VSA&NT volunteers, Di and Bob and we worked closely with Matthew and Tae to plan the dates, times and visits. We contacted a number of Volunteer Involving Organisations in the Metropolitan area and Di and I were thrilled at the positive response we received from Volunteer Managers.
The Volunteer Managers were wonderful, and in no time at all we had the dates, times and venues locked in.
Carmel Nicholas, General English Academic Purposes (GEAP), Program Manager, (PCE) met with Matthew Tae and I and we finalised the program.
Each Friday I held an’ Introduction to Volunteering’ Session to the students before we embarked on our volunteer journey.
The 27 students from Kansai University braved the wet Adelaide ‘summer’ weather to visit the Art Gallery and Museum and the 10 students from Ritsumeikan University were treated to a ‘Bat Watch’ by the environmentally focussed volunteer
guides at Conservation Volunteers. Meals on Wheels and the Zoo visits showcased the volunteer ethos in Australia.
The students had hands-on volunteer experiences while assisting with the building of a home for Habitat for Humanity and also created a garden for a new adult respite service for CARA (Community and Respite Accommodation).
The program was a huge success, and the students expressed a desire to explore Volunteer opportunities when back in Japan.
Below: Kaye Mahomet, centre with Prof. Takaichi Okuda (L) and Prof. Eiichi Yamamoto (R)
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Engaging Japanese Students In Volunteering ... Continued
I could not have achieved any of this without the support of the staff and volunteers at VSA&NT, the staff of the English Language Centre, Professional & Continuing Education (PCE) who were so devoted to the students, the Volunteer Managers and volunteers who were so generous with their time and resources and the Professors who had a desire to explore volunteer opportunities for the students.
What an emotional, sad time it was when the final 10 students left to return to Japan.
It was such a pleasure to be involved with this program and I have made so many wonderful friends. I am in awe of the many volunteer managers and volunteers who assisted us with this project as they went out of their way to offer us lunch, provide equipment and make us welcome. - so thank you.
The Student’s Itinerary
• Art Gallery and Museum visit February 18th
• Conservation Volunteers Bat Watch February 22nd
• Meals on Wheels February 25th
• Zoos SA visit March 4th
• CARA (Community and Respite Accommodation) March 11th
• Habitat for Humanity March 18th
• Ritsumeikan University Presentation Dinner and goodbye! March 18th
Engaging Japanese Students In Volunteering Kaye Mahomet, Manager, Sector Support and Development
guides at Conservation Volunteers. Meals on Wheels and the Zoo visits showcased the volunteer ethos in Australia.
The students had hands-on volunteer experiences while assisting with the building of a home for Habitat for Humanity and also created a garden for a new adult respite service for CARA (Community and Respite Accommodation).
The program was a huge success, and the students expressed a desire to explore Volunteer opportunities when back in Japan.
Below: Kaye Mahomet, centre with Prof. Takaichi Okuda (L) and Prof. Eiichi Yamamoto (R)
Page 8 Page 9
Maria Russo has a love for volunteering and over 6 years she has spread her support across A.N.F.E (Associazione Nazionale Famiglie degli Emigrati Inc.), once a week at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, once a month for World Vision while also serving on the Volunteer Management Committee for Carnivale.
“I volunteer because I love helping people and helping myself – I feel better”
- Maria Russo.
She wears many hats in her volunteer roles. As Transport Assistant for ANFE, she assists people getting on and off buses after which she helps cook a delicious Italian meal at The Junction Community Centre. She then assists by serving coffee, meals and setting tables. She loves helping with activities such as bingo and cards and even singing, dancing and exercising with the elderly Italians!!
On a typical day, Maria hops on her bus at 8.30am to do the rounds, picking up 10 elderly Italians from various locations in Grange, Findon, Seaton, Largs Bay, Semaphore and Rosewater.
By 10.30am they arrive at The Junction Community Centre where Maria helps serve coffee and biscuits, followed by exercises. After a short break it’s time for Maria to prepare the midday meal which usually consists of a Pasta, (her favourite is Pasta Fagoli - Pasta with Beans). Then there’s Secondi (a main meal of fish or meat and vegetables), followed by desert, coffee and fruit.
“The food is good, very fresh,” she says “and the menu changes everyday.”
A Day In The Life Of A Dedicated Volunteer Naomi Offler, HACC CALD Project Officer, VSA&NT
MULTICULTURAL
Cooking Up A Cultural Storm! Naomi Offler, HACC CALD Project Officer, VSA&NT
Maltese Aged Care provides services to 282 elderly Maltese and non-Maltese clients. From domestic assistance to a fresh, high quality Maltese meals delivered Monday to Friday, the services Maltese Aged Care provide are extensive and from the heart. As Services Manager of Maltese Aged Care, Jo Emms, says, “We are more flexible in that we are a small association and can service the more specific needs of our clients.”
Maltese Aged Care is particularly known for its fresh home delivered meals service. In line with the agencies’ flexibility, clients can receive a home cooked meal from Monday to Friday from one to three courses. “Some people only want a soup, so we are flexible with that.” For many people who would like meals but live outside the delivery areas, there is also a frozen pick up meal option. The Meals Service is on a 4 week rotating menu which always ensures variety for people. “It’s satisfying to know that we are meeting their needs.”
Jo was born in Malta and immigrated to Australia with her parents when she was 8. She says that being a part of Maltese Aged Care is a great pleasure. Sharing stories with the elderly Maltese brings back childhood memories of times in Malta and “allows me to connect back with my childhood”. Maltese Aged Care is therefore as much about providing comprehensive services as it is about “making sure our culture stays alive”. Maltese Aged Care gives the elderly “a bit of Malta”.
Volunteers are essential to the maintenance and even more so, the growth of the services Maltese Aged Care provides. Jo now operates 3 meal delivery runs, however, only has volunteers for two of the five days of Run 3. As she says; “We want to grow, but our hands are tied. We don’t have enough volunteers to service the needs of our clients.”
Without volunteers, the service would not run and many isolated and infirmed elderly would not have a friendly face, a warm meal and a chat to bring happiness to their day. As Jo says, “When our volunteers go to clients’ homes, the clients are so lonely; it just helps them to see a friendly face.”
Maltese Aged Care is run by 4 part-time and 2 full-time staff and over 30 volunteers!!! Thank you for the difference you make!
Above: Bozena Cabaj (Kitchen Hand) Robyn Burg (Volunteer Kitchen Hand) Bernadette Buhagiar (Cook)
Below: Jo Emms (Services Manager) and Candice Memmler (Administration Officer)
Page 8 Page 9
MULTICULTURAL
Maria Russo has a love for volunteering and over 6 years she has spread her support across A.N.F.E (Associazione Nazionale Famiglie degli Emigrati Inc.), once a week at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, once a month for World Vision while also serving on the Volunteer Management Committee for Carnivale.
“I volunteer because I love helping people and helping myself – I feel better”
- Maria Russo.
She wears many hats in her volunteer roles. As Transport Assistant for ANFE, she assists people getting on and off buses after which she helps cook a delicious Italian meal at The Junction Community Centre. She then assists by serving coffee, meals and setting tables. She loves helping with activities such as bingo and cards and even singing, dancing and exercising with the elderly Italians!!
On a typical day, Maria hops on her bus at 8.30am to do the rounds, picking up 10 elderly Italians from various locations in Grange, Findon, Seaton, Largs Bay, Semaphore and Rosewater.
By 10.30am they arrive at The Junction Community Centre where Maria helps serve coffee and biscuits, followed by exercises. After a short break it’s time for Maria to prepare the midday meal which usually consists of a Pasta, (her favourite is Pasta Fagoli - Pasta with Beans). Then there’s Secondi (a main meal of fish or meat and vegetables), followed by desert, coffee and fruit.
“The food is good, very fresh,” she says “and the menu changes everyday.”
While the elderly play bingo and cards, Maria cleans up the kitchen then lends a hand with drinks, singing, translating or anything else that is needed before it’s time for everyone to get back on the bus. “The old people are very fragile and they are on their own,” she says, “and I know when they go home, they don’t have anyone to go home to. So, I make a joke with them, I sing with them and dance with them to make them happy.”
When Maria arrives home at 4.00 pm she feels satisfied, knowing volunteering has made a difference to her life and the lives of others.
Below: Maria (centre) and helpers preparing meals at The Junction Centre
Volunteers are the heart and soul of these Meals Delivery Services and there is always a need for more. Jo Emms, Manager from Maltese Aged Care would love to expand the number of food runs she does from 2 to 3, however, she needs more volunteers to support this expansion.
Whether you are from a culturally or linguistically diverse background or not, volunteering in these communities provides a rich and valuable experience.
To express your interest in volunteering with these Meals Delivery Services or any other form of volunteering in the Multicultural Home and Community Care sector, please contact Naomi Offler at Volunteering SA&NT on 8221 7177
A Day In The Life Of A Dedicated Volunteer Naomi Offler, HACC CALD Project Officer, VSA&NT
Cooking Up A Cultural Storm! Naomi Offler, HACC CALD Project Officer, VSA&NT
Without volunteers, the service would not run and many isolated and infirmed elderly would not have a friendly face, a warm meal and a chat to bring happiness to their day. As Jo says, “When our volunteers go to clients’ homes, the clients are so lonely; it just helps them to see a friendly face.”
Maltese Aged Care is run by 4 part-time and 2 full-time staff and over 30 volunteers!!! Thank you for the difference you make!
Above: Bozena Cabaj (Kitchen Hand) Robyn Burg (Volunteer Kitchen Hand) Bernadette Buhagiar (Cook)
Below: Jo Emms (Services Manager) and Candice Memmler (Administration Officer)
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Volunteers Help Expose SA’s Heritage Kathy Bowden, Manager Marketing & Client Services Adelaide Cemeteries Authority
South Australia’s newest and most unusual tourism experience was launched by Adelaide Cemeteries Authority Chair, Catherine Schultz in March at State Heritage listed West Terrace Cemetery.
The Heritage Highlights self-guided interpretive trail reveals many unique insights into South Australia’s rich history through the stories of both eminent and everyday South Australians buried within the cemetery.
Among the 29 sites featured on the trail are internationally renowned musician and composer Percy Grainger; women’s suffrage campaigner Mary Colton; Victoria Cross recipient Arthur Seaforth Blackburn; Ballet Russe principal ballerina Madeleine Parker; and the Menz family, inventors of the popular FruChoc, Crown Mint and Yo Yo Biscuit.
Visitors to West Terrace Cemetery can collect a brochure just inside the main entrance and navigate their way through the cemetery using the map and navigational signage.
Adelaide Cemeteries Authority Chair, Catherine Schultz said the Friends of West Terrace Cemetery contributed greatly to the development of the new interpretive trail. “Their extensive knowledge of the cemetery and South Australia’s heritage was invaluable during this process,” Catherine said. “Since their inception, this small but important group of volunteers have been strong community advocates for the historic landmark and have dedicated their time to preserving the cemetery’s historic value and exposing it to the wider community” .
In addition to research and documenting headstones the
VOLUNTEER STORIES
Volunteers Share Their Experiences Eugena Hoggins, Program Manager - Community Care St John Ambulance Australia SA Inc
John Takes Pleasure in Helping People
Born and raised in Naracoorte, John has worked for the Federal and State Governments, lived in Canberra and Sydney and has travelled extensively.
He has a great appreciation for all sports, whether it be coaching or refereeing Rugby Union or volunteering to assist weight lifters as a strength conditioning coach, and he always finds a way to be a part of the sporting world.
John appreciates the effect that a volunteer can have on the life of someone in the community, so he volunteers for several organisations, including Sports Medicine Australia and the St John Community Care Program. By being a volunteer he can connect with and assist a range of people within the community. John likes to get to know people and finds volunteering rewarding as he believes he has been able to assist people achieve their goals, become more confident and have higher self-esteem.
John has been able to combine his love of volunteering and sports on more than one occasion, volunteering for the Sydney Olympics and Para Olympics being two highlights in his volunteering career.
John takes pleasure in helping people who may be isolated. He believes that people, no matter what their age, medical condition or life circumstances enjoy an outing and the chance to socialise every now and again and that is why being a volunteer with the St John Community Care Program is so important.
While doing St John 1st Aid Courses as part of his work OH&S requirements, John heard about the Community Care Program and realised it was flexible enough to “fit” in with his other activities. He now has three people he visits and each is different. One gentleman likes to play in the local disability basketball league and play indoor bowls while another prefers phone calls. Through his visits, John also provides a carer with a break.
Regular volunteer support meetings are held by the program and John finds he is constantly learning from other volunteers’ experiences. “I feel we are all part of one happy family and we are able to support each other during sad or difficult times,” he says, and when a client passed away, he felt really supported by the program.
Through volunteering, John has enjoyed friendships made with fellow volunteers and the camaraderie that is shared within each group, program or organisation.
John currently volunteers for approx. 7-10hpw with various organisations and says that people thinking of becoming a volunteer should ask themselves if they are going to achieve what they would like to from volunteering and if they have the capacity to give and receive.
When asked what John likes most about volunteering he replies: “Lending a hand to those who may need it.”
Kym Finds Enjoyment And Satisfaction
Kym was born and raised in Adelaide and she and her husband are keen travellers but when she found she had additional time on her hands after her daughters left home she saw an ad in the local messenger calling for volunteers for the St John Community Care Program. Having an interest in the aged care field, Kym decided to become a volunteer.
That was eighteen months ago, and Kym now has two clients she helps with shopping, running errands, visiting at home for morning tea and a chat or to a coffee shop.
After becoming a volunteer Kym changed her career path to work in the aged care industry and will soon complete her studies in this field. The flexibility of the program has meant that Kym has been able to continue volunteering while keeping up with her busy family, work and study commitments. She was also able to complete the St John 1st Aid Training course free of charge after being a volunteer for six months.
Kym finds enjoyment and satisfaction in the social aspect of volunteering as well as making a difference in someone else’s life. “There is nothing negative to say about volunteering,” she says.
Two community care volunteers share their stories ....
Page 10 Page 11
HERITAGE
Volunteers Help Expose SA’s Heritage Kathy Bowden, Manager Marketing & Client Services Adelaide Cemeteries Authority
South Australia’s newest and most unusual tourism experience was launched by Adelaide Cemeteries Authority Chair, Catherine Schultz in March at State Heritage listed West Terrace Cemetery.
The Heritage Highlights self-guided interpretive trail reveals many unique insights into South Australia’s rich history through the stories of both eminent and everyday South Australians buried within the cemetery.
Among the 29 sites featured on the trail are internationally renowned musician and composer Percy Grainger; women’s suffrage campaigner Mary Colton; Victoria Cross recipient Arthur Seaforth Blackburn; Ballet Russe principal ballerina Madeleine Parker; and the Menz family, inventors of the popular FruChoc, Crown Mint and Yo Yo Biscuit.
Visitors to West Terrace Cemetery can collect a brochure just inside the main entrance and navigate their way through the cemetery using the map and navigational signage.
Adelaide Cemeteries Authority Chair, Catherine Schultz said the Friends of West Terrace Cemetery contributed greatly to the development of the new interpretive trail. “Their extensive knowledge of the cemetery and South Australia’s heritage was invaluable during this process,” Catherine said. “Since their inception, this small but important group of volunteers have been strong community advocates for the historic landmark and have dedicated their time to preserving the cemetery’s historic value and exposing it to the wider community” .
In addition to research and documenting headstones the
Friends of West Terrace Cemetery also conduct regular guided tours at 11.30am on the first Tuesday of each month or by group booking. Bookings are essential. Over the coming months, the Authority will recruit new members in order to bolster the efforts of the Friends group.
For more information contact the Adelaide Cemeteries Authority on 8139 7438.
Volunteers Share Their Experiences Eugena Hoggins, Program Manager - Community Care St John Ambulance Australia SA Inc
Regular volunteer support meetings are held by the program and John finds he is constantly learning from other volunteers’ experiences. “I feel we are all part of one happy family and we are able to support each other during sad or difficult times,” he says, and when a client passed away, he felt really supported by the program.
Through volunteering, John has enjoyed friendships made with fellow volunteers and the camaraderie that is shared within each group, program or organisation.
John currently volunteers for approx. 7-10hpw with various organisations and says that people thinking of becoming a volunteer should ask themselves if they are going to achieve what they would like to from volunteering and if they have the capacity to give and receive.
When asked what John likes most about volunteering he replies: “Lending a hand to those who may need it.”
Kym Finds Enjoyment And Satisfaction
Kym was born and raised in Adelaide and she and her husband are keen travellers but when she found she had additional time on her hands after her daughters left home she saw an ad in the local messenger calling for volunteers for the St John Community Care Program. Having an interest in the aged care field, Kym decided to become a volunteer.
That was eighteen months ago, and Kym now has two clients she helps with shopping, running errands, visiting at home for morning tea and a chat or to a coffee shop.
After becoming a volunteer Kym changed her career path to work in the aged care industry and will soon complete her studies in this field. The flexibility of the program has meant that Kym has been able to continue volunteering while keeping up with her busy family, work and study commitments. She was also able to complete the St John 1st Aid Training course free of charge after being a volunteer for six months.
Kym finds enjoyment and satisfaction in the social aspect of volunteering as well as making a difference in someone else’s life. “There is nothing negative to say about volunteering,” she says.
Page 12 Page 13
Public Trustee Volunteers Grow Goodwill Bernie Reading, Manager Volunteer Services, Minda Inc
The refurbishment of an outdoor area and garden arrived as an early Christmas present for residents of homes in the Martin and Waterhouse complexes, located on Minda’s Brighton campus.
It took six volunteers (pictured) and two staff just a day to remove an old vine and replace it with an espalier, set up three herb gardens in huge corrugated iron tubs, plant a new garden, decorate walls with wire art, pave and paint, last November.
Built in the 1960s, the courtyard and garden had received little attention during the past decade, and staff wanted to make it a more attractive place for residents and families to enjoy.
Keen to establish a corporate volunteering partnership, the Office of the Public Trustee identified Minda, with which it has a long standing relationship, as an organisation it would like to support, and so with the assistance of Volunteering SA&NT, the ‘backyard blitz’ project was conceived.
Minda CEO, Cathy Miller, said the volunteers made an invaluable contribution to the organisation. “This project has been of great benefit to the residents, who are now venturing out to the courtyard and garden on a regular basis and having involvement in growing their own herbs and plants,” she
MENTORING PROGRAM
Sandra Richards, one of our Golden Gurus skilled mentors, was awarded an Irene Bell Community Service Award at the March 2011 International Women’s Day lunch. Sandra has had a long volunteer career and been involved with many different organisations. She is an active member of the women’s service organisation - Soroptimist International, being a member of the SI Torrens club and currently is the SA Program/UN Liason. She has given many years of service to the National Council of Women of SA holding a variety of roles. Sandra is also an active member of the Cruising Yacht Club of SA. Volunteering SA&NT has been proud to claim Sandra as one of our original Golden Gurus. She has successfully mentored a number of people working in the Not-for-Profit Sector receiving very positive feedback for the positive support she has provided.
If you would like someone like Sandra as a mentor to listen to and assist you deal with your workplace challenges or career development, or if you feel you have something to offer and would like to be a mentor like Sandra, please contact: Erica Majba on email at: [email protected]
Below: Sandra Richards and Erica Majba
Golden Gurus comes to GawlerWe are delighted to inform volunteers in Gawler and surrounds that our successful mentoring program is now available to you. Colleen Moyne has accepted the challenge to become the VSA&NT Regional Golden Gurus Co-ordinator. Her skills and knowledge of the local community will ensure that volunteer mentors feel supported and those working in Community Organisations in Gawler or surrounds have the opportunity to have a mentor. Our thanks go to Jill Talbot, Co-ordinator of The Gawler Community House, at 2 Scheibener Terrace, Gawler for supporting our program by for providing a base for Colleen to work from.
A number of Networking/Information sessions will be run for people living/working in the Gawler community who are working for a Community Organisation who are interested in having a mentor to learn about our program. If you would like an invitation please contact Colleen.
For all enquiries about the program in Gawler please contact:
Colleen Moyne, Gawler Golden Gurus Co-ordinator on Mobile: 0450 162 813 or email: [email protected]
Visit Volunteering SA&NT website go to Our Work / Programs for more information about the Golden Guru’s program.
Colleen Moyne and Jill Talbot
Community Service Award For Mentor Erica Majba, Golden Gurus Co-ordinator, VSA&NT
Need Colour?
Call Ariel
Need Colour?
Call Ariel
159 South Rd Ridleyton SA 5008 T: 08 8346 6177 F: 08 8346 6619
email [email protected] www.arielprint.com.au
159 South Rd Ridleyton SA 5008 T: 08 8346 6177 F: 08 8346 6619
email [email protected] www.arielprint.com.au
Page 12 Page 13
CORPORATE VOLUNTEERING
Public Trustee Volunteers Grow Goodwill Bernie Reading, Manager Volunteer Services, Minda Inc
The refurbishment of an outdoor area and garden arrived as an early Christmas present for residents of homes in the Martin and Waterhouse complexes, located on Minda’s Brighton campus.
It took six volunteers (pictured) and two staff just a day to remove an old vine and replace it with an espalier, set up three herb gardens in huge corrugated iron tubs, plant a new garden, decorate walls with wire art, pave and paint, last November.
Built in the 1960s, the courtyard and garden had received little attention during the past decade, and staff wanted to make it a more attractive place for residents and families to enjoy.
Keen to establish a corporate volunteering partnership, the Office of the Public Trustee identified Minda, with which it has a long standing relationship, as an organisation it would like to support, and so with the assistance of Volunteering SA&NT, the ‘backyard blitz’ project was conceived.
Minda CEO, Cathy Miller, said the volunteers made an invaluable contribution to the organisation. “This project has been of great benefit to the residents, who are now venturing out to the courtyard and garden on a regular basis and having involvement in growing their own herbs and plants,” she
said. “This project simply would not have happened without the assistance of the six corporate volunteers, who showed genuine interest in coming to see what we’re all about. I look forward to strengthening and expanding our relationship with the Office of the Public Trustee and working on corporate volunteering projects in the future,” she added.
A $5,000 donation from a family member initiated the project, assisted by donations or discounts from several local businesses, including Marion Sand and Metal, Bunnings, Oliver’s Pets and Plants, City of Holdfast Bay, Kennards Hire, and Envirocare.
“Whether it is making time once a year or once a week, volunteer assistance always makes a difference to those in need and goes a long way to building a stronger state.”
- Minda CEO Ms Cathy Miller.
Anyone interested in volunteering with Minda as an individual or in a corporate team should contact the Volunteer Coordinator on 8422 6244.
Visit the Minda website at www.mindainc.com.au .
Golden Gurus comes to GawlerWe are delighted to inform volunteers in Gawler and surrounds that our successful mentoring program is now available to you. Colleen Moyne has accepted the challenge to become the VSA&NT Regional Golden Gurus Co-ordinator. Her skills and knowledge of the local community will ensure that volunteer mentors feel supported and those working in Community Organisations in Gawler or surrounds have the opportunity to have a mentor. Our thanks go to Jill Talbot, Co-ordinator of The Gawler Community House, at 2 Scheibener Terrace, Gawler for supporting our program by for providing a base for Colleen to work from.
A number of Networking/Information sessions will be run for people living/working in the Gawler community who are working for a Community Organisation who are interested in having a mentor to learn about our program. If you would like an invitation please contact Colleen.
For all enquiries about the program in Gawler please contact:
Colleen Moyne, Gawler Golden Gurus Co-ordinator on Mobile: 0450 162 813 or email: [email protected]
Visit Volunteering SA&NT website go to Our Work / Programs for more information about the Golden Guru’s program.
Colleen Moyne and Jill Talbot
Community Service Award For Mentor
159 South Rd Ridleyton SA 5008 T: 08 8346 6177 F: 08 8346 6619
email [email protected] www.arielprint.com.au
Page 14 Page 15Page 15
Starting A Conversation On Succession Planning Adam Bishop, Executive Director, Athletics SA
With an ageing volunteer workforce and the absence of appropriate succession planning, Athletics South Australia has experienced a decline in the number of officials available to run its competitions.
Skilled volunteer officials are integral to the provision of athletics competitions in South Australia. Sensing the number of officials could reach crisis levels within the next five years, Athletics SA set about to develop a discussion paper in order to kick start conversation in relation to the development of a plan to recruit new volunteer officials and retain existing personnel.
After attending the National Volunteering Conference (thanks to a grant from Volunteering SA&NT), Athletics SA Executive Director, Adam Bishop, produced the discussion paper entitled; Athletics SA Volunteers – The Million Dollar Question. The paper explored the various roles of all Athletics SA volunteers, including clubs personnel, coaches, officials, and volunteer administrative staff and suggested potential avenues for recruitment and retention. The paper also sought to quantify the monetary value of volunteer labour to Athletics SA.
The resulting calculation revealed that Athletics SA volunteers collectively contributed more than a million dollars in labour annually to Athletics SA.
The full discussion paper can be downloaded on the Athletics SA website at www.athleticssa.com.au .
CORPORATE VOLUNTEERING
Joining Forces to Revegetate The Coorong Dan French, Project Officer icare communities
When
For the third time running, corporate volunteer heroes BT Financial responded to a call from the Lakes Hub Nurseries for urgent volunteer assistance. The nurseries, under contract as part of the Coorong and Lower Lakes Recovery project, are racing the clock to grow 220 000 locally sourced native plants to be ready for the revegetation efforts scheduled for Autumn/Winter, 2011. BT Financial are one of numerous volunteer groups assisting the network of nine community nurseries involved in efforts to restore the biological diversity and functionality of the Coorong and Lower Lakes area.
After a brief project overview from Lakes Hub Nurseries Manager Jo McPhee, the group of seven were escorted to the Milang Environment Centre Community Nursery where they joined forces with nursery staff to set about the day’s activities. The weather gods prevailed and produced pleasant overcast conditions perfect for sitting outdoors and working and making new friends whilst enjoying the serenity of the local environment.
The hard working BT volunteers and Nursery staff managed to transplant 2 200 seedlings, including Sea Rush (Juncus krausii) seedlings, which were divided to supplement the limited supply of seed stock was originally available for collection.
The day was a huge success and the effort was greatly appreciated by the Milang Old School House Community Centre (MOSHCC), the Nursery staff and the Lakes Hub who rely on volunteers to fulfil the obligations of the projects planting contract. As a way of showing their appreciation two lovely ladies from the MOSHCC cooked up a hearty lunch which included a delicious, fruity yogurt mousse for desert!
The BT group was unanimous in declaring the experience a success saying that the opportunity to contribute, learn about the local environment and make new friends was an experience well worth repeating. Their advice to those considering volunteering….do it, it rocks!
The next major volunteer opportunity for this project and the kick off of the planting season will be on World Environment Day June 5, 2011. If you would like to become involved and receive updates on this and other rewarding volunteer experiences, become a member to icare communities today (www.icarecommunties.org.au). Become a member of the volunteer community, have your say and help make volunteering a more rewarding experience for all. For more information visit icare communities online or send enquiries to [email protected].
The Team from BT Finance
Page 14 Page 15
SPORTS VOLUNTEERING
Page 15
Starting A Conversation On Succession Planning Adam Bishop, Executive Director, Athletics SA
With an ageing volunteer workforce and the absence of appropriate succession planning, Athletics South Australia has experienced a decline in the number of officials available to run its competitions.
Skilled volunteer officials are integral to the provision of athletics competitions in South Australia. Sensing the number of officials could reach crisis levels within the next five years, Athletics SA set about to develop a discussion paper in order to kick start conversation in relation to the development of a plan to recruit new volunteer officials and retain existing personnel.
After attending the National Volunteering Conference (thanks to a grant from Volunteering SA&NT), Athletics SA Executive Director, Adam Bishop, produced the discussion paper entitled; Athletics SA Volunteers – The Million Dollar Question. The paper explored the various roles of all Athletics SA volunteers, including clubs personnel, coaches, officials, and volunteer administrative staff and suggested potential avenues for recruitment and retention. The paper also sought to quantify the monetary value of volunteer labour to Athletics SA.
The resulting calculation revealed that Athletics SA volunteers collectively contributed more than a million dollars in labour annually to Athletics SA.
The full discussion paper can be downloaded on the Athletics SA website at www.athleticssa.com.au .
Joining Forces to Revegetate The Coorong Dan French, Project Officer icare communities
When
The day was a huge success and the effort was greatly appreciated by the Milang Old School House Community Centre (MOSHCC), the Nursery staff and the Lakes Hub who rely on volunteers to fulfil the obligations of the projects planting contract. As a way of showing their appreciation two lovely ladies from the MOSHCC cooked up a hearty lunch which included a delicious, fruity yogurt mousse for desert!
The BT group was unanimous in declaring the experience a success saying that the opportunity to contribute, learn about the local environment and make new friends was an experience well worth repeating. Their advice to those considering volunteering….do it, it rocks!
The next major volunteer opportunity for this project and the kick off of the planting season will be on World Environment Day June 5, 2011. If you would like to become involved and receive updates on this and other rewarding volunteer experiences, become a member to icare communities today (www.icarecommunties.org.au). Become a member of the volunteer community, have your say and help make volunteering a more rewarding experience for all. For more information visit icare communities online or send enquiries to [email protected].
The Team from BT Finance
Page 16 Page 17
Cancer Council NT’s Relay for Life in Alice Springs was held on the 4th March 2011. It was held at the Crowne Plaza and saw more than 150 locals come together to celebrate cancer survivors, remembered loved ones’ and to fight back against the disease in a moving mini relay event that raised over $11,500 this year.
The money raised from this event benefits locals directly through the funding of Cancer Council’s education and
Relay For Life In Alice Springs Robyn Toi, Regional Development Officer, VSA&NT Alice Springs
VOLUNTEERING IN NT
Leaving An Imprint On Wadeye Michael Cavanagh, Indigenous Community Volunteers, Canberra
Screen printing workshops and help coordinating a festival was what took Lucy Butler to Wadeye in the Northern Territory – face painting children and being the chef for vegetarians was another part of the experience.
She worked at the Palngun Wurnangat Association helping the women with Screen Printing/Etching and also as the Wadeye Festival Assistant Coordinator for the community’s arts and cultural festival.
“The Arts Centre has a group of very talented artists. I was able to push their designs a little further and play with other printing techniques. The women’s designs are exquisite, and we started playing with printing on canvas. Canvas has more economic value in galleries then other fabric material,” she explained.
Apart from being able to mix and share artistic ideas with the many talented local artists, Lucy also found herself teaching art at the local school as she became more involved with the wider community.
This ability to mix and share ideas also came to the fore when the Sydneysider helped successfully coordinate the Festival which three thousand attended.
“This project was such a good positive tool for building self-esteem and creating energy and momentum in the
community. People were talking about creating more entertainment events where people can develop and perform their skills,” Lucy later observed.
It gave a chance for not just the artists to be involved but the wider community with children making masks, and boys assisting with security and other community members involved in the catering.
“It created a buzz in Wadeye and also brought people in from other communities that also wanted to celebrate. All the local bands that had not played in years came together and designed T-shirts and sang their country’s songs. We designed and hand printed all the t-shirts at the women’s centre,” Lucy explained.
This included the prominent Black Arm Band (pictured below with Lucy) which opened the festival and also threw themselves into the T-shirt making.
“It was brilliant to see old women throwing down their walking sticks and dancing with such enthusiasm and rhythm. Young and old dancing and embracing their culture and kids parading down the street with masks they made, women from the retirement village out in force waving their flags and wearing party hats. To see the whole community come together and showing off their talents and embracing their community.”
Let’s All Actively Participate In IYV+10.The IVV+10 portal www.iyvplus10.com.au has been established as the main Australian portal to find information about the year of celebrations. The site is being managed in partnership with Volunteering Queensland.
You can register your IYV+10 event on the VA Events Calendar - on www.volunteeringaustralia.org and find out more information on the history of IYV by visiting the World Volunteer Website at www.worldvolunteerweb.org.
Page 16 Page 17
VOLUNTEERING IN NT
Cancer Council NT’s Relay for Life in Alice Springs was held on the 4th March 2011. It was held at the Crowne Plaza and saw more than 150 locals come together to celebrate cancer survivors, remembered loved ones’ and to fight back against the disease in a moving mini relay event that raised over $11,500 this year.
The money raised from this event benefits locals directly through the funding of Cancer Council’s education and
prevention programs, as well as support for those directly affected by cancer through services offered by the Cancer Council NT. The Cancer Council NT would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to volunteers involved for their contributions and local sponsors that makes the Relay such a success.
Relay For Life is a moving celebration of cancer survivorship and the Survivors and Carers Lap of Honors provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with survivors and their carers and to promote a message of HOPE that affirms people do survive cancer.
For the newly diagnosed, Relay offers a chance to meet someone who has survived the same type of cancer. For the cancer patient in treatment, Relay provides an opportunity to share with others. For the long-term survivor, Relay encourages recognition of their struggle.
Caregivers also find hope in Relay For Life. These individuals give their time, love and support to friends, family and neighbours who face cancer. At Relay, everyone understands the challenges and joys of being a caregiver. There is peace of mind knowing that together we can face the challenges ahead.
More information on Cancer Council NT events, go to: www.cancercouncilnt.org.au
Relay For Life In Alice Springs Robyn Toi, Regional Development Officer, VSA&NT Alice Springs
Leaving An Imprint On Wadeye Michael Cavanagh, Indigenous Community Volunteers, Canberra
community. People were talking about creating more entertainment events where people can develop and perform their skills,” Lucy later observed.
It gave a chance for not just the artists to be involved but the wider community with children making masks, and boys assisting with security and other community members involved in the catering.
“It created a buzz in Wadeye and also brought people in from other communities that also wanted to celebrate. All the local bands that had not played in years came together and designed T-shirts and sang their country’s songs. We designed and hand printed all the t-shirts at the women’s centre,” Lucy explained.
This included the prominent Black Arm Band (pictured below with Lucy) which opened the festival and also threw themselves into the T-shirt making.
“It was brilliant to see old women throwing down their walking sticks and dancing with such enthusiasm and rhythm. Young and old dancing and embracing their culture and kids parading down the street with masks they made, women from the retirement village out in force waving their flags and wearing party hats. To see the whole community come together and showing off their talents and embracing their community.”
Let’s All Actively Participate In IYV+10.The IVV+10 portal www.iyvplus10.com.au has been established as the main Australian portal to find information about the year of celebrations. The site is being managed in partnership with Volunteering Queensland.
You can register your IYV+10 event on the VA Events Calendar - on www.volunteeringaustralia.org and find out more information on the history of IYV by visiting the World Volunteer Website at www.worldvolunteerweb.org.
Page 18 Page 19Page 19
On 18th June 2011 seven South Australian Special Olympic athletes will leave our shores and head to Greece for what is set to be the largest sporting event in the world this year, the Special Olympic World Games. Over 7000 Special Olympics athletes from nearly 200 nations will compete in 22 sports, providing our athletes with the unforgettable experience of representing their country!
The athletes will initially spend a week on Rhodes Island enjoying some site seeing and experiencing Greek hospitality and culture before the opening ceremony in Athens on 25th June. They will then compete against other nations in the sports of ten pin bowling and basketball, before participating in the grand closing ceremony on 4th July.
The following South Australian athletes from Adelaide and Riverland regions were selected for the World Games as a result of outstanding performances at the National Games held here in Adelaide last year: Bradley Kinross, basketball; Wayne Kinross, basketball; Daniel Tsatsaronis, bowling; Krystal Brown, bowling; Rebecca Sargeant, basketball; James
Special Olympics SA Goes Greek Annie Waddington-Feather, Corporate Relationships Manager, Special Olympics SA
A Murray Bridge volunteer group has used innovation and initiative to take out ‘Event of the Year’ at their local Australia Day awards. ‘Team Community Spirit’, an independent support group made up of Murray Bridge locals, received the accolade for their ‘Rock Vegas’ event, a gala dinner that raised more than $25,000 for Murray Bridge disability support service Community Lifestyles.Major sponsors included Power FM/5MU, Farm Fresh, Salzi Fruits, T.N.R. Pastoral and Elders. ‘Rock Vegas’ was the most recent of a series of ‘Rock’ themed gala dinners, designed to raise much-needed funds for Community Lifestyles’ Children’s Respite farmhouse in Murray Bridge. The sold out event mixed a toe-tapping dance off with a gala dinner, attracting nearly
Event Of The Year Award For Local Group
DISABILITY
Giving Joy To Children With Disabilities Ian Beaton, PR Technical Aid to the Disabled SA Inc.Technical Aid to the Disabled SA Inc (TADSA) is the state-wide charity which uses the skills, time and facilities of its technical volunteers to design and build or modify equipment that is not readily available for people with disabilities or those who struggle with day to day activities.
Last year, TADSA introduced a program called FREEDOM WHEELS which gives children with disabilities the chance to experience something most of us take for granted – the joy of riding a bicycle.
Bringing smiles to the faces of many South Australian children, the FREEDOM WHEELS customised bicycle program modifies standard pushbikes to give a new kind of independence to children by allowing them to ride a bicycle for the first time.
Children are individually assessed at a FREEDOM WHEELS bike clinic. This assessment process, which is conducted by occupational therapists or physiotherapists and TADSA volunteers, ensures that each child receives a bicycle that is perfectly suited to his or her age, height, weight and physical ability. It is the first step towards giving the children a newfound freedom. The bikes are modified using an assortment of pre-made components, including back and neck supports, outrigger wheels, handle bars and seats, as well as custom made accessories.
Subject to future funding, TADSA is planning to extend the FREEDOM WHEELS clinics to regional South Australia in 2011.
Parents or carers interested in registering a child for a FREEDOM WHEELS bike clinic or anyone who would like more information about the FREEDOM WHEELS program or TADSA services can contact the TADSA office on statewide local call1300 663 243.
Fair trade is based on a genuine partnership between producers and consumers. Through the sale of FAIRTRADE certified goods, producers are paid a fair income, which enables them to improve their quality of life and plan for their future. For consumers, buying fair trade goods means they can help reduce world poverty simply by changing their everyday shopping habits. For a product to display the FAIRTRADE label it must meet international environment, labour and developmental standards. This includes a fair and stable price for produce, security of long-term contracts, investment in local community development, improved working conditions and environmentally sustainable farming methods.Facts and Figures• Fair trade benefits approximately 1,000,000 workers and
farmers in 60 developing countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America
• Between 2008 and 2009, retail sales of FAIRTRADE Certified products in Australia and New Zealand increased by 58% to over AU$50 million
• The range of FAIRTRADE Certified products available in Australia and New Zealand has now expanded to include coffee, tea, chocolate and cocoa products, sports balls, cotton, rice, sugar and quinoa.
Ways to Get Involved in SA.
Whether you are new to fair trade or are looking to get more involved, there are exciting and creative ways to inform your friends, family and community about fair trade and trade justice.
Adelaide City Council became an accredited Fair Trade Council in 2010 – SA’s first and Australia’s first Capital City Council to become accredited. Being accredited means that FAIRTRADE certified tea and coffee are served to the Elected members and staff, Council commits to promoting fair trade to local businesses and other City communities, as well as hosting fair trade events and activities in the city and North Adelaide throughout the year.
You don’t have to be a Council to get accredited.
You can obtain Fair Trade accreditation at school, at work, at university or in your local community. Whether you are an individual or part of a group, every voice and every action counts. Fair trade -why not give it a fair go?
For further information please contact Adelaide City Council staff member Chandler Giles on 8203 7570 or email [email protected] .
Visit www.fairtrade.com.au.
All About FAIRTRADE
Page 18 Page 19
EVENT VOLUNTEERING
Page 19
On 18th June 2011 seven South Australian Special Olympic athletes will leave our shores and head to Greece for what is set to be the largest sporting event in the world this year, the Special Olympic World Games. Over 7000 Special Olympics athletes from nearly 200 nations will compete in 22 sports, providing our athletes with the unforgettable experience of representing their country!
The athletes will initially spend a week on Rhodes Island enjoying some site seeing and experiencing Greek hospitality and culture before the opening ceremony in Athens on 25th June. They will then compete against other nations in the sports of ten pin bowling and basketball, before participating in the grand closing ceremony on 4th July.
The following South Australian athletes from Adelaide and Riverland regions were selected for the World Games as a result of outstanding performances at the National Games held here in Adelaide last year: Bradley Kinross, basketball; Wayne Kinross, basketball; Daniel Tsatsaronis, bowling; Krystal Brown, bowling; Rebecca Sargeant, basketball; James
Special Olympics SA Goes Greek Annie Waddington-Feather, Corporate Relationships Manager, Special Olympics SA
Maxwell, basketball and Jasmin Crewsdon, BasketballIn raising funds to support the athletes SOSA has received tremendous support from the Greek community, including The Greek Orthodox Community of SA and the Panrhodian Society ‘Colossus’ of SA. Other organisations such as Lions, Bedford, Australian Disability Sport, Holcos Meats and the Adelaide 36ers have also been very supportive. SOSA is extremely grateful for all fundraising efforts which have so far contributed towards the $70,000 required to send our athletes to the Games. Thank you!SOSA continues to develop and grow, providing sporting opportunities to the 6400 people registered with SA disability agencies as having an intellectual disability. At the end of 2010 SOSA had over 500 members. We are currently working with nearly 20 affiliated groups and will soon launch a new region on the Limestone Coast. Plus we recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Riding for the Disabled to add equestrian to the list of sports offered and we hope to add bocce, cricket and golf as sports offered in the near future.For further information visit www.specialolympics.com.au/sa
A Murray Bridge volunteer group has used innovation and initiative to take out ‘Event of the Year’ at their local Australia Day awards. ‘Team Community Spirit’, an independent support group made up of Murray Bridge locals, received the accolade for their ‘Rock Vegas’ event, a gala dinner that raised more than $25,000 for Murray Bridge disability support service Community Lifestyles.Major sponsors included Power FM/5MU, Farm Fresh, Salzi Fruits, T.N.R. Pastoral and Elders. ‘Rock Vegas’ was the most recent of a series of ‘Rock’ themed gala dinners, designed to raise much-needed funds for Community Lifestyles’ Children’s Respite farmhouse in Murray Bridge. The sold out event mixed a toe-tapping dance off with a gala dinner, attracting nearly
200 guests to become the fundraising event of the year in the Murray region. Supporters donated to their favourite dancer through a purpose created website in the lead up to the event, with the couple raising the highest amount being awarded ‘King and Queen of Fundraising’.
After receiving the Australia Day award, Team Leader for ‘Team Community Spirit’ Trish Davids thanked and congratulated the hard-working volunteers that made ‘Rock Vegas’ a success.
Community Lifestyles Chief Executive Officer Sue Michael also expressed her gratitude to ‘Team Community Spirit’ for their dedication and support, which, over the past four years has raised more than $50,000.
Event Of The Year Award For Local Group
Giving Joy To Children With Disabilities Ian Beaton, PR Technical Aid to the Disabled SA Inc.
Parents or carers interested in registering a child for a FREEDOM WHEELS bike clinic or anyone who would like more information about the FREEDOM WHEELS program or TADSA services can contact the TADSA office on statewide local call1300 663 243.
Ways to Get Involved in SA.
Whether you are new to fair trade or are looking to get more involved, there are exciting and creative ways to inform your friends, family and community about fair trade and trade justice.
Adelaide City Council became an accredited Fair Trade Council in 2010 – SA’s first and Australia’s first Capital City Council to become accredited. Being accredited means that FAIRTRADE certified tea and coffee are served to the Elected members and staff, Council commits to promoting fair trade to local businesses and other City communities, as well as hosting fair trade events and activities in the city and North Adelaide throughout the year.
You don’t have to be a Council to get accredited.
You can obtain Fair Trade accreditation at school, at work, at university or in your local community. Whether you are an individual or part of a group, every voice and every action counts. Fair trade -why not give it a fair go?
For further information please contact Adelaide City Council staff member Chandler Giles on 8203 7570 or email [email protected] .
Visit www.fairtrade.com.au.
All About FAIRTRADE
Page 20 Page 21
Volunteering SA&NT Membership
Through theDepartment for Families and
CommunitiesOffice for Volunteers
Attorney-General’s Department
Volunteering SA&NT would like to acknowledge the support of the following partners:
TRAINING
Training News Jim Kestling, Training Coordinator, VSA&NT
Resthaven Wins Coveted Award Julie Johinke, ResthavenResthaven Marion, in conjunction with Westminster School, has taken out the COTA ‘Every Generation: For Young and Old’ award for 2010. The coveted prize is awarded to programs which encourage interactive, intergenerational activities that aim to challenge negative stereotypes about ageing. Resthaven Marion and Westminster School have undertaken a series of programs between residents and students that aim to encourage positive interaction and mutual learning between residents and students. These include:
A weekly computer tuition group, where residents visit the school technology centre, for high school students to teach them computing skills in an interactive learning environment.
An annual indoor bowls challenge and Christmas event, where primary school students bring along personally made Christmas cards and gifts for residents.
Visits from year 8 students throughout the year to participate in games afternoons and discussion with residents (usually a class of 20-25).
Combined church service at the school chapel, with the service topic: Respecting Each Other – hope in our dreams and visions.
Visits from music student, Ting, who plays for the residents after school and during school holidays.
Other music students performing concerts.
An ‘Action Day’, where students visit the site and interact with residents as part of their service learning project.
One on one supervised visiting and reading.
Further to this, Resthaven Marion resident, Brian Bowley, is currently helping to design a garden area at the school for
students and staff to enjoy, and Resthaven Executive Manager, Residential Services, Wendy Morey, was invited to speak about aged care at a parents’ forum at Westminster School in March 2010.
Resthaven regularly evaluates current activities for the benefits of both generations in a deliberate attempt to challenge negative stereotypes of ageing. It is hoped that this different, intergenerational experience will bring an appreciation of
the value of older people, which will positively enhance future outcomes when considering the older population
Above: Ingrid Tuininga, Brian Bowley, Linda Sexton
Free Training Workshops.
The 2011 summer school was a success with free workshops held both at VSA&NT in Victoria Square and workshops hosted at venues around Adelaide and the hills (Woodville, Brighton, Gawler, Aldgate and Mt Barker). The free workshops will be offered again in May so see updates on at www.volunteeringsa.org.au and in v-News.
New Training Registration Form ONLINE
Tested for the first time we used online registration forms for all of the training in the Summer program. For the technically minded we used two tools:
- Data Manager (part of our website development package) that used an email and PDF file confirmation
- Google Docs spreadsheet (and Form) that allowed reception staff to access enrolment information to close off workshops when full and manage reserve lists
Advanced Diploma Studies in Volunteer Management
This year we are coordinating 17 students studying for an Advanced Diploma (supported by the Federal Government
Productivity Places Program). The 17 students come from a range of organisations, building a community network between them. To support learning and sharing of information an Online Learning Support portal has been created. For the technically minded, the platform is Moodle, utilising the internal functions (Resource links, Discussion Forums, File repository, etc) and Google Docs to share and collaborate documents and assignments.
To keep up to date with training workshops, make sure you sign up for the weekly v-News by emailing [email protected]
Register for Workshop with International Volunteer Expert Susan J. Ellis
“Educate Up: Gaining True Support for Volunteers from Top Management”
Thursday 2 June 2011; 9:30am to 4:30pm at BioSA Incubator Conference Centre, West Thebarton Rd, ThebartonCOST: $88 inc GST (incl. lunch, morning & afternoon tea).For more information and to book, go to: www.volunteeringsa.org.au
Page 20 Page 21
Volunteering SA&NT MembershipMEMBERS & PARTNERS
Through theDepartment for Families and
CommunitiesOffice for Volunteers
Attorney-General’s Department
Volunteering SA&NT would like to acknowledge the support of the following partners:
Helen Elix Gary Byron DECS Mentoring Program Murray and Mallee Cluster GROW (SA Branch) Anglicare NT St Hilarys Anglican Church COTA Seniors Voice Alzheimer’s Australia NT Inc SA Murray-Darling Basin NRM Board Variety NT DECS Aboriginal Multicultural Languages & Learning
Resource Centre Conservation Volunteers Darwin
Community Visitors Scheme
If you would like to find out more on how your organisation can enjoy the benefits of Membership, contact VSA&NT Business Services Officer
on 08 8221 7177 or visit our website at www.volunteeringsa.org.au
Training News Jim Kestling, Training Coordinator, VSA&NT
Resthaven Wins Coveted Award Julie Johinke, Resthaven
Visits from music student, Ting, who plays for the residents after school and during school holidays.
Other music students performing concerts.
An ‘Action Day’, where students visit the site and interact with residents as part of their service learning project.
One on one supervised visiting and reading.
Further to this, Resthaven Marion resident, Brian Bowley, is currently helping to design a garden area at the school for
students and staff to enjoy, and Resthaven Executive Manager, Residential Services, Wendy Morey, was invited to speak about aged care at a parents’ forum at Westminster School in March 2010.
Resthaven regularly evaluates current activities for the benefits of both generations in a deliberate attempt to challenge negative stereotypes of ageing. It is hoped that this different, intergenerational experience will bring an appreciation of
the value of older people, which will positively enhance future outcomes when considering the older population
Above: Ingrid Tuininga, Brian Bowley, Linda Sexton
Productivity Places Program). The 17 students come from a range of organisations, building a community network between them. To support learning and sharing of information an Online Learning Support portal has been created. For the technically minded, the platform is Moodle, utilising the internal functions (Resource links, Discussion Forums, File repository, etc) and Google Docs to share and collaborate documents and assignments.
To keep up to date with training workshops, make sure you sign up for the weekly v-News by emailing [email protected]
Register for Workshop with International Volunteer Expert Susan J. Ellis
“Educate Up: Gaining True Support for Volunteers from Top Management”
Thursday 2 June 2011; 9:30am to 4:30pm at BioSA Incubator Conference Centre, West Thebarton Rd, ThebartonCOST: $88 inc GST (incl. lunch, morning & afternoon tea).For more information and to book, go to: www.volunteeringsa.org.au
Volunteers are Vital
Our Key Services Include:*
Recruitment*
Volunteer Vacancy Listing Service*
Volunteer Referral Service*
Training*
Volunteer Management Professional Development
*Consultancy
*Research
*Policy Advice
*Working with Targeted Populations
*Guest Speakers
*Free Resource Library
*Merchandising
For information about any of our services
Phone 8221 7177Country Callers 1300 135 545
Email [email protected]
Volunteering SA&NTwww.volunteeringsa.org.au