A pathway to new skill sets

Idon’t have the skills or time; someone else will do it; I have to commit to an organisation; I’m too young, too old; I’m not as valuable as a paid staff member... we’ve all heard the myths surrounding volunteering and, again, I say they are completely untrue.

Volunteers can be of all ages and skill sets, and can commit as little as one hour to help an organisation thrive.

They serve to enhance an organisation, whether through bringing their skills, experience, passion and commitment, or their desire to contribute.

Volunteering is for many, a pathway to new skills, experiences, friendships and employment.

But, how do we ‘bust these myths’ and support people to volunteer and make a difference in our communities?

We start by building the capacity of all those wonderful people in our region who recruit, support and coordinate volunteers.

With that in mind, Centre For Participation is once again excited to welcome internationally renowned volunteering expert and author Rob Jackson back to the Wimmera this month.

Mr Jackson will lead two workshops in Horsham surrounding myths of volunteer management and customer service and volunteering.

He has worked in the volunteering movement for more than 20 years, including leading and managing volunteer programs at local, regional and national levels.

The former director of Development and Innovation for Volunteering England also has experience at a fundraising level, having developed the UK’S first code of good practice on volunteer fundraising.

Now operating Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd, he provides consultancy, public speaking and training services on a range of topics to clients across the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and North America, and has co-authored several volunteering books.

The workshops, at Centre for Participation on Monday, are aimed at those interested or involved in volunteer co-ordination.

Places are strictly limited and can be booked by calling 5382 5607 or emailing info@centreforparticipation. org.au.

• Julie Pettett is Centre for Participation chief executive