Community Friend Volunteer - Melbourne City Mission

This role is advertised by Volunteer West, the volunteer resource centre of Australian Multicultural Community Services on behalf of Melbourne City Mission

Organisation description:

Melbourne City Mission (MCM) is a leading community services organisation that innovatively works alongside thousands of Victorians and their communities to overcome barriers experienced through Homelessness, Early Years, Disability, Palliative care, Early Childhood Intervention Services and Education.

With deep experience working with communities experiencing disadvantage, MCM advocates for systemic change, working across all sectors to sustainably disrupt such disadvantage.

Since 1854, MCM has been striving for those experiencing disadvantage to live their life, their way.

Job description: The Community Friend Program (CFP) was established in 1989. The Community Friend Program recruit, train and provide coordination and support to volunteers who are matched to a participant with a disability.

The aim of the program is to support people with a mild to moderate disability to engage with their community, make new friends and enjoy a social life – something most of us take for granted. In doing this, the Community Friend Program decreases isolation and increases independence for some of Melbourne’s most marginalized community members.

CFP is looking for committed volunteers over the age of 18 who can spare 2-3 hours a fortnight, have good organisational and communication skills, and are looking for a fun way to contribute to their community!

Requirement Description:

• A fortnightly commitment to the Community Friend Program of 12 months
• The capacity to speak up and seek advise and/or support
• An understanding and appreciation of the importance of friendship
• Sound communication skills (verbal and interpersonal), maturity and reliability

Training: Ongoing support and training opportunities are provided in the role.

Other requirements:

• NDIS Worker Screening Check.
• Volunteers who have resided outside of Australia for longer than 12 months in the past 10 years will also be required to provide an international police check from the country/s of residence, prior to the interview.

Application Procedure:

CFP will first discuss over the phone in further detail about the program, and if suitable, send an application form. The next step is for an interview/induction, and forms to be signed.

Benefits of volunteering in this role:

• Help reduce isolation and foster community engagement for marginalised individuals.
• Gain valuable experience in communication, interpersonal relationships, and community support.
• Receive ongoing training and support to enhance your skills and confidence as a volunteer.