With National Volunteer Week currently being held, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the vital contributions volunteers make to our community.
From first responders providing life-saving services to the unsung supports at community events, volunteers keep our society functioning. And for those who provide volunteer services, the rewards are wide reaching.
Why We Volunteer
For some, volunteering is a stepping-stone to employment. It offers the opportunity to learn new skills and try out a job, getting a feel for what is needed and gaining valuable knowledge. Volunteering also offers a fantastic opportunity to develop skills and try new things based on your interests, unrelated to seeking paid work.
For many others, volunteering is a way to give back to the communities they love, offering support to those in need. Often, we think of our local CFS, SES or SA Ambulance service for these types of roles, however they also exist in our sports clubs, op shops, local museums and other community services.
People who regularly volunteer highlight the great joy it brings them, as well as the increased sense of connection they get from being a part of something, whatever that looks like. Some people enjoy the social elements of volunteering, while others take pleasure in working alone as they offer their contributions.
Barriers to Volunteering
Volunteering isn’t always an easy thing to undertake. Some people have no interest in it, and for others a simple lack of time to commit can be a barrier.
However, a lack of confidence or understanding surrounding volunteering can also prevent people from getting involved. Having support when you first start out can make an immense difference. A nurturing environment with good supports helps people develop confidence in themselves and their abilities as they learn their role, while also supporting their personal development.
Disability and Volunteering
Living with disability is highlighted as being a major constraint on people being able to get involved with volunteering. Finding an option that suits you, matches with your interests and challenges you without being overwhelming can be a challenge. However, there are many volunteer options available to people with a variety of disabilities.
Some volunteering roles can be done online or from your own home, which offers flexibility. Accessible options also exist, allowing people with physical or sensory needs to join in. Many places value inclusivity and welcome people with diverse needs into their teams, celebrating the unique benefits each person offers and taking pride in the mutual support of these relationships.
Some Fun Statistics
The very first “State of Volunteering Report” in 2023 highlighted the vast numbers of South Australians volunteering their time, with over 60% of the state population aged 15 and over engaged in volunteer activity — more than 950,000 people.
This enormous contribution was estimated to have an approximate labour replacement cost of $9 billion, with 223 million hours spent volunteering across the year. Nearly 30% of volunteers indicated an intention to increase their volunteer hours over the next three years.
If you’re seeking a local volunteer opportunity, the Barossa Council website maintains a catalogue of current vacancies, also allowing you to submit an expression of interest application designed to help link you to the best possible options.
Join us in offering a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers that keep our community safe, supported and successful.
We value you.