Where to volunteer in Melbourne

Been thinking of giving your time to those in need, but not sure where to start? These worthy causes are always looking for helping hands.

Adult Multicultural Education Services (AMES)

As a volunteer for AMES, you’ll be assisting newly arrived migrants and refugees settle into life in Victoria. You could teach English, mentor those looking to pursue a career or give practical help (anything from taking public transport to paying bills) to families as a Settlement Volunteer.

Get involved: Contact AMES and set up an interview with the volunteer coordinator. www.ames.net.au.

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre

Volunteers are the lifeblood of this fantastic organisation. There are many ways to help asylum seekers and refugees with the ASRC, whether it’s in the food and clothing bank or the health and law department.

Get involved: Attend an information evening at the Footscray or Dandenong locations. www.asrc.org.au.

Edgar’s Mission

Happy, healthy rescued factory farm animals live peacefully just an hour’s drive from Melbourne at Edgar’s Mission. The animalloving folk here are always in search of likeminded Victorians to help maintain the farm. Cuddling animals is compulsory.

Get involved: Contact the farm through their website or register for a one-off ‘helping hand’ day. www.edgarsmission.org.au.

Sacred Heart Mission

This Melbourne-based organisation offers plenty of opportunities to help those experiencing homelessness; you can help out at their op shops, help chefs prepare 500 meals every day and become a companion for residents in their rooming houses.

Get involved: Contact the volunteer office through the Sacred Heart Mission website. www.sacredheartmission.org.