Every year Kids First holds a special thank you event during National Volunteer Week (18 – 24 May) to recognise the people who generously donate their time to the organisation’s activities. While this year’s gathering is on hold, Kids First is at pains to sing their volunteers’ praises.
“We can’t show our gratitude in person this time but there is no less love for our volunteers,” said Ms Aileen Ashford, Kids First’s CEO. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the experience, rich social connections and genuine enthusiasm of these wonderful people who add value to Kids First and our clients.”
Kids First, a child and family services organisation, has a long history of volunteerism throughout its 120-years plus history. Currently more than 80 volunteers work side-by-side with organisation staff across activities including:
- Mentoring Mums – sees experienced mothers act as mentors to expectant or new mothers who are experiencing social isolation and vulnerability
- Korin Korin Child & Family Centre and Seymour Family and Children’s Centre – benefits from volunteers assisting as classroom helpers as well as performing administrative duties
- Op Shops – in Rosanna and Thornbury are regularly staffed by volunteer shop assistants
- Fundraising activities – include golf days and corporate fundraisers where volunteers meticulously plan and deliver charity events.
Ms Ashford said the pandemic has inevitably sidelined some volunteer activities, while others have been able to continue through telephone and video communications.
“Mentoring Mums continues to operate, with mentors regularly checking in by phone and video chats with new or vulnerable mothers. Their acts of kindness and generosity are helping to keep mothers connected at a time that is isolating for all of us, said Ms Ashford.
Kids First welcomes applications to join its growing and dynamic volunteer pool. All volunteers must be willing to undergo a Police check and Working with Children check. To register interest, visit: www.kidsfirstaustralia.org.au/page/52/volunteer-with-us
ENDS
Contact
Clare Lombardi, Marketing & Communications Manager, Kids First
0427 181 778
clombardi@kidsfirstaustralia.org.au