Volunteer Last Saturday Writing Group Support Facilitator

About the Role

Burwood Library is seeking a passionate and experienced writer to support the delivery of our monthly Writing Group. This volunteer role is ideal for someone who enjoys storytelling, creative expression, and encouraging others to develop their writing skills in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The Volunteer Last Saturday Writing Group Support Facilitator will assist the lead facilitator during sessions and step into a facilitation role when the lead facilitator is unavailable. They will help foster a supportive and engaging environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their stories, ideas, and writing.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the lead facilitator during monthly Writing Group sessions.
• Assist with facilitating discussions, writing activities, and creative exercises.
• Encourage participants to share their stories, ideas, and writing in a welcoming environment.
• Help create a positive and inclusive group culture.
• Provide constructive encouragement and feedback where appropriate.
• Step in to facilitate sessions when the lead facilitator is unavailable.
• Work collaboratively with library staff and the lead facilitator to ensure sessions are engaging and accessible to all participants.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Demonstrated writing experience, whether through professional, academic, creative, or community writing.
• A passion for storytelling and sharing the craft of writing with others.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence engaging with groups and encouraging participation.
• A commitment to creating a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Personal Attributes

The ideal volunteer will be:

• Enthusiastic and encouraging.
• Passionate about writing, storytelling, and helping others find their voice.
• Reliable and able to step into a facilitation role when required.
• Patient and supportive of writers at all skill levels.
• Creative, flexible, and community-minded.

Commitment

• Attend the monthly Writing Group session.
• Support the lead facilitator during sessions.
• Be available to facilitate sessions when the lead facilitator is absent, where possible.
• Participate in occasional planning and communication with library staff as required.

Benefits

• Share your passion for writing and storytelling with the community.
• Support local writers to build confidence and develop their skills.
• Gain valuable facilitation and community engagement experience.
• Contribute to a welcoming and connected community space.