Volunteer Information Hub

Volunteers are an integral part of Family Life’s vision to create capable communities, strong families and thriving children. We couldn’t do this without our volunteers – thank you!

To help you understand what volunteering with The Family Life involves and to support you in your role, there are a few documents and policies you can access at any time. You can view and download those documents below. 

If you have any questions about the documents and policies below, please get in touch with your supervising Manager (Store Manager, Distribution Centre Manager or Program Manager/Lead), or with a member of our Volunteering Team.

Volunteering Team Contact Details:

Newsletter Articles

Welcome to our Volunteer Engagement Lead, Adele!

Get to know our new Volunteer Engagement Lead, Adele!

How did you become interested in volunteering?

I was introduced to volunteering as a toddler, my Nan would take me with her on her Meals on Wheels deliveries. I knew then, even as a little tacker, that it was about so much more than dropping food to people. I love being around people and wanted to understand how I could make a positive difference in communities. So, I studied Sociology at University and have been lucky to work in some amazing NFP and Health sector volunteer management roles. When I saw this role for Family Life, I was instantly intrigued, I asked people I knew and respected about the organisation and heard only positive stories! I feel so lucky to be here and can’t wait to get stuck in and help contribute to Family Life.

What’s your all-time best op‑shop find?

Full length tan suede vintage jacket, I was flabbergasted with excitement and was walking on air for weeks!

What do you think makes op shopping such a great experience for the community?

It is the perfect storm of recycling, finding treasures, chatting with people, getting out of the house, having a groove to the music and getting lost in your thoughts.

What has been your most rewarding experience working with volunteers?

100% seeing likeminded people meet and become friends, who otherwise never would have met. I have been so fortunate to witness this happen many times and it truly is so wonderful to meet new friends doing something you are passionate about.

 

What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about volunteer work?

That volunteering is good for all parts of your life (physical, mental and overall wellbeing) and the best part is that our families and communities benefit from it too. It is a true win-win!

What’s a book, podcast, or show you’re loving at the moment?

I am into my podcasts at the moment and have been listening to ‘Small Town Dicks’, it follows Detectives in small town America, it is true crime, so won’t be for everyone. It is hosted by Yeardly Smith (Lisa from The Simpsons!) and her partner. If you are a true crime fan, give it a shot!

BTS of our Mornington Store with Manager Sarah!

What makes the Mornington Community Store special?

Store Manager, Sarah’s response is a resounding, “Community connection! An example of this was at Christmas time when we decorated the main street trees. A lady from our community collaborated with local stores to yarn bomb trees. This was the second year we’ve done this. We have about six volunteers who knit (and now teach other volunteers). Together, they put together some amazing tree covers for three of the trees in the street! The group met every Thursday to work on the project and we revealed the trees on the 1st of December (also our store’s third birthday). It really bought the whole street to life! “

People of all ages are welcome in the Mornington store. Sarah has welcomed students from many local schools giving them a head start in their working/volunteering experience through providing a space to grow confidence and learn the magic of opportunity stores. There are also lots of volunteers at retirement age, and everything in between. Having so many different people at the store keeps the space inclusive, vibrant and thriving.

What is unique about this store?

The space is so big and full of colour. Sarah loves changing the store every week, which volunteers and customers love to see. It is like a new shopping experience every time our customers come in. The site was originally an art shop and often customers ask about our unique ‘paint splattered’ flooring.

What is the most interesting thing you have sold in the store?

Sarah recalls that on a busy day she pulled out some unique jewellery, not realising it was worth anything special. She soon realised it was worth thousands of dollars! A great donation for the Mornington Op shop and Family Life.

“We sell lots of interesting bits and pieces. A memorable piece was an old record player from the early 1900’s. This was such a great conversation piece, as everyone who saw it had a story from their childhood. Great examples of lovely moments shared with our community.”

Three words to describe the perfect op shop:

Fun, Kath & Kim (laughing), funky!

Any other comments about the store?

Sarah loves being in the store and thinks of her crew as her extended family.

Our Volunteer Position Descriptions

Position descriptions are a practical tool to help you understand the tasks and responsibilities of the position and also provide an indication of where the role fits within the bigger picture of Family Life.

Join our Volunteer Facebook Group to keep up to date with all things Volunteering at Family Life!

Volunteer Newsletter Editions

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