CEO Report
Happy New Year and welcome to the January edition of eNews. I hope you all enjoyed a well-deserved break along with the beautiful weather and festivities.
I’m sure many of you will also be pleased to see the back of 2020 and feel uplifted with renewed hope for 2021. It is a relief to see that we are making progress by containing COVID, but sadly it will be around longer than we had anticipated and even with a vaccine on its way.
Volunteering WA calls on State Government to invest in volunteering
Over the past several years, Western Australia's volunteering sector has seen a drastic decrease in formal volunteering, and this looks to be exacerbated by COVID. With the State Election fast-approaching, Volunteering WA calls on all WA parties to commit to five key actions:
1. Increase funding for volunteer recognition and celebration.
2. Provide adequate and secure funding for volunteer resource centres.
3. Consider and consult on the impacts of statutory changes on volunteering.
4. Adequately fund sector support, recognising the breadth of volunteering.
5. Harness technological innovation to facilitate volunteering.
Read our State Election Priorities here.
A shifting sector presents opportunities - 2021 priorities
It is not all doom-and-gloom though. While the almost 20% decline in formal volunteering continues to have significant impacts on volunteer involving organisations and requires urgent attention, there are opportunities presented with a shift towards informal, virtual and micro-volunteering. As we move beyond the crisis phase of the pandemic and towards adapting for the future, there remain concerns and pressures on volunteer involving organisations.
With these challenges (and opportunities) in mind, Volunteering WA's focus over the next few years, and especially in 2021, is in building the resilience of our sector with a focus on awareness, readiness and future-proofing. As we continue to improve and deliver our regular services, our team is gearing up for a busy year with a number of new initiatives and opportunities, including:
Awareness
• Statewide communications campaign to promote volunteering (launching mid-2021).
Readiness
• New workshop: Designing Virtual Volunteering Programs (registrations open).
• New service: VIOHelp desk for VIO queries.
• Development of a Restart Package for volunteer involving organisations to assist them in engaging and managing volunteers during COVID (March - August roll out).
Future-proofing
• Research into volunteering within aged care settings.
• Youth Volunteering in the Peel and Southwest regions (3 year program).
• A national volunteering platform (IT rebuild).
I thank our members, volunteers, volunteer organisations across the State, who helped to shape these priorities. I can promise you a very busy, productive and exciting 2021. We have some stretch goals ahead that will challenge us and new opportunities that will drive change and growth. I am confident that through our values we have the fortitude and desire to achieve the best outcomes for our communities and sector.
I’m really looking forward to working with you all and to an enjoyable, enlightening and rewarding year.
Happy Volunteering,
Tina Williams | CEO Volunteering WA
Our News
Volunteering WA to undertake research into aged care settings
As part of the State's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Volunteering WA has received a Lotterywest grant to conduct research into volunteering within aged care settings.
In partnership with Murdoch University, the objective of the project is to facilitate knowledge sharing on changes to volunteer programs in the aged care sector during COVID 19 and to develop a range of good practice guides for volunteering in aged care settings. Learn more.
Advocacy and Policy
State Election Priorities
Volunteering WA calls on State Government to invest in volunteering and commit to five (5) key actions. Volunteering WA has a strong and valued relationship with the Western Australian government, and this is central to the ongoing growth and development of the sector. Read our Election Platform here.
Communique #2 - Volunteering Community Reference Group
At the last Volunteering Community Reference Group (VCRG) held in November 2020, a number of significant issues were discussed, including the role of volunteers in ongoing COVID-19 response, fall in formal volunteering numbers, future funding and operations of Volunteer Resource Centres and new requirements for some volunteer drivers to be licensed. Read the Communique here.
Recent Policy Submissions
January 2021 - Reportable Conduct Scheme Submission on Green Bill. Read here.
WA Volunteer of the Year Awards - Nominations open soon
Do you know a volunteer, volunteer manager or organisation who goes above and beyond? Nominations open soon for the 2021 WA Volunteer of the Year Awards.
Key dates
- Nominations open (Friday 5 February - Friday 5 March).
- Judging Panels to select finalists (March).
- ABC Radio Spirit of Volunteering Award - Public voting opens (Monday 29 March - Friday 23 April).
- All finalists announced and invited to attend the Awards. Tickets on sale.
- WA Volunteer of the Year Awards Gala Dinner (Thursday 20 May).
Visit the Awards website for further details.
BOOKINGS: Please remember during these socially-distanced times, there is limited capacity at events. Tickets are limited and will be on sale until May 3 or until sold out. Please email holly@volunteeringwa.org.au to book your tickets.
How do you thank your volunteers?
Apply for a National Volunteer Week Grant and thank your volunteers for everything they do.
Grants now open - Volunteering WA, with generous support from Lotterywest, is offering volunteer involving organisations across Western Australia the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $1,000 to organise an event which recognises and thanks volunteers during National Volunteer Week (Monday 17 - Sunday 23 May 2021).
Corporate Volunteering
Calling all members who need Human Resources help
We have a large HR team from one of our corporate members who are ready and willing to volunteer their skills on a number of HR-related projects throughout 2021. Do you have a project they could help you with?
Here are some ideas for how this team might be able to help your organisation:
Preparing and facilitating a workshop(s) for your clients on resume writing or interviewing skills.
Preparing and running a training session(s) for your staff or volunteers on health and safety matters.
- Helping prepare or review HR documentation and processes, such as a volunteer or staff onboarding package.
If you need HR support and one of the above would be of value to you, or you have another idea that might suit, then please contact Amanda at amanda@volunteeringwa.org.au or call 9482 4323. Even if you're not ready yet but may be later in the year, please let us know so we can pencil you in!
Pilbara Hub: Participant feedback
Woodside Energy employee, Caitlin, attended a corporate volunteer team day with Salvation Army in Karratha before the Christmas break, and shared some of her favourite memories from the experience:
"Thanks again for all your efforts in making yesterday a success. It was a simultaneously challenging, rewarding, & sobering day. I went home both physically and mentally tired, but would do it again in a heartbeat.
The atmosphere you helped to foster was one of collaboration, encouragement, support and positivity. When I first walked in and heard about what we were going to do, I’ll admit I was a little overwhelmed. However, I felt supported and empowered throughout the day, and once I’d taken the first client through, I felt like an old hand and was looking forward to taking the next person through."
Regional News
Kimberley Hub
Welcome to Cate Warne who has commenced her role as Volunteer Coordinator at the Broome VRC/Kimberley Hub. Cate will be working fulltime from Broome Circle across both the Department of Social Services and Department of Communities programs and is keen to hit the ground running.
Wheatbelt Hub
The Wheatbelt hub has moved to a shared location within the Forrest Personnel offices on the main street in Northam. The team is settling in well and getting lots of referrals from the Job Service to assist people to find volunteer roles in the local community. Coordinator Tanya Richardson is heading to Moora next month to run a Volunteer Engagement Planning Workshop for volunteer managers and STEP into volunteering session for potential volunteers.
Follow on Facebook: Pilbara Hub | Wheatbelt Hub | Kimberley Hub
Volunteer Managers’ Network
Did you know Volunteering WA runs free network meetings and mentoring for volunteer managers?
The Volunteer Managers’ Network (VMN) is for people who coordinate or manage volunteers. The network meets every two months to discuss important issues, share ideas together and occasionally have guest speakers. Don’t forget to also join the VMN Facebook group to keep up to date with all the latest news.
NEW SERVICE FOR VIOS: VIOHelp
Volunteer management and sector expertise is just an email away
Volunteering WA has established VIOHelp to answer queries from volunteer involving organisations (VIOs) about issues relating to volunteers or volunteer management practice.
The service draws on VWA's unique position as a peak body and our wealth of knowledge and experience gained over the past 32 years working with volunteer managers, volunteers and the volunteer sector in WA. Learn more.
Membership starts from just $1 a week and gives you access to a host of benefits including discounts, professional development, exclusive services and early notice about opportunities for grants, training and events, not to mention a network of organisations that are committed to volunteering .
In our recent member survey, 99% of members said they would recommend membership to other volunteer involving organisations.
To learn how membership to your peak body can support you, visit our website: https://www.volunteeringwa.org.au/membership/become-a-member
Alternatively email our Member Services Manager membership@volunteeringwa.org.au
Overhaul of volunteering IT platforms
As you might be aware, in 2020 Volunteering WA was awarded a substantial grant from the Woodside COVID-19 Community Fund to overhaul our IT system and create a 'one-stop-shop' for volunteering. The project team is full-steam-ahead with the research and development of this project, and further updates and announcements will be shared throughout this year.
Through Woodside’s significant investment we can deliver the best innovative IT solutions that support and advance the volunteer sector across Australia.
Sector News
MHFA Multicultural Ambassador Program 2021 - Applications Open Now
The Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) is delighted to invite you to join the MHFA Multicultural Ambassador Program (MCA) in 2021. Applications for the MHFA Multicultural Ambassador Program 2021 are open to all members of the community who represent one of Australia's many multicultural communities and are passionate about better mental health outcomes, increased awareness and reduced stigma around mental health issues in Australia's CALD communities. Learn more.
WA Youth Awards Nominations Now Open
The WA Youth Awards recognise young Western Australians aged 12 to 25 years for their achievements and contributions to the community. The Awards also reward outstanding youth groups and organisations that serve and support the state’s young people.
Nominations for these awards close 5 March 2021, see the YACWA website for further information Learn more.
Registrations open – The World’s First 24-Hour Online Digital Marketing Summit
24 – 25 February 2021 | For not-for-profits and social enterprises
While other conferences charge between $500 and $2000 a ticket – Your ticket to Unite2021 is $97 and EVERYTHING is included: Access to all 40+ speakers and talks; live speaker Q&A's so you can ask your own questions; customisable agenda; every session recording from all three streams for 30 days; an amazing virtual goodie bag (valued at over $300AUD) of resources to help you implement the biggest event lessons.
Learn more.
Department of Communities Volunteer Awards – last chance to nominate
The WA Volunteer Service Awards program recognises Western Australian volunteers who have provided 25 years or more of voluntary service with the same organisation, and in 2021, will also acknowledge those volunteers who have served across multiple organisations, providing enduring commitment to our state.
If you know a long-standing volunteer, nominate them online or seek further information at www.wa.gov.au/wa-volunteer-service-awards
Nominations will close on 1 March 2021.
Would you like to support and empower women who want to regain their independence whilst giving back to the community?
Volunteering WA is proud to be supporting United Way WA with their Fresh Futures Program and we are looking for up to five VIO’s who would be interested in participating in this pilot project.
What is the Fresh Futures Program:
It’s a six to nine month program run by United Way WA designed for women who have a current police record. The program has been developed to offer support, education and mentoring through work experience or volunteering opportunities.
VWA would like to hear from VIO’s who would be interested in offering (with support from United Way WA) a six week volunteer placement within their organisation.
Each VIO will be given free education and training through Volunteering WA and will be allocated a Community Impact Manager who will work with you, your organisation and the individual matched with your organisations.
To register your interest, please contact Louise Giles at Volunteering WA louise@volunteeringwa.org.au
Training & Events
We have some fantastic training coming up in the next few weeks. Please visit our website here for a full schedule of upcoming sessions however we bring to your attention a few that are very popular and filling up fast.
What’s new in training?
2021 training registrations are now open with three new Volunteer Management courses being introduced already, and even more to follow. New programs include:
• Designing a Successful Virtual Volunteering Program (workshop and handbook).
• Certificate IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC44015)
• Leading the Way
Visit our Training webpage for all upcoming dates.
Making the most of your Volunteering WA membership
Tuesday 2 February | 9am - 10am | Online | For new or prospective VWA members
Has your organisation has recently joined Volunteering WA (VWA), have you recently taken on a new role involving volunteer management, or would you like to refresh your knowledge about the services and support available to VWA members? Free for representatives from VWA member organisations and those considering joining. Limited spaces available. Register here.
Volunteer Manager Network Meeting
Thursday 11 February | 9:00am - 11:00am | Face to face
Venue: Volunteering WA office, West Leederville
Did you know VWA runs network meetings and mentoring for Volunteer Managers?
The Volunteer Managers' Network (VMN) is for people who coordinate or manage volunteers. We meet every two months and discuss issues that affect you, share ideas together and occasionally have guest speakers. To register for our next face to face VMN meeting on 11 February 2021 click here.
Writing Successful Grant Applications (Webinar)
Tuesday 23 February | 9:30am - 11:30am | Online via Zoom
Designed for people who have minimal grant writing experience, this one and a half hour information webinar will provide you with the skills needed to write a successful grant application. Register here.
Cert IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC44015)
Commences Tuesday 2 March 2021 and continues monthly until March 2022 | Online and face to face
Volunteering WA, in partnership with The Centre for Volunteering, through the National School of Volunteer Management (SVM) [RTO code 90031], is pleased to offer the Certificate IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC44015).
This online 12-month course has been developed with the not-for-profit or community service professional in mind and is responsive to the latest trends and requirements for volunteer coordinators in Australia.
For further information, please email Volunteering WA’s Training Manager at louise@volunteeringwa.org.au or visit our website.
'Designing a Successful Virtual Volunteering Program' Workshop and Handbook
Wednesday 3 March | 9:30am - 12:30pm | Face to face | For volunteer leaders
Venue: Volunteering WA office, West Leederville
A comprehensive handbook and workshop program with practical steps, checklists, and case studies to help VIOs design and implement virtual volunteering programs. Learn more.
Leading the Way
Wednesday 10 March | 9:30am - 3:30pm | Face to face | For volunteer leaders
Venue: Volunteering WA office, West Leederville
Outlines a best practice approach to launch or re-invigorate volunteer programs and supports the ongoing effective management of volunteers. Learn more.
Save the date - WA Volunteer of the Year Awards
Thursday 20 May | 6:30pm - 12:00am
Venue: Grand Ballroom, Crown Perth
Welcome to New Members
A warm welcome to our new and returning members:
Toodyay Playgroup
Western Metropolitan Regional Council (WMRC)
Wheatbelt Health Network
York Garden Club
We look forward to working with you.
Saturday Shout Out
Do you need help finding volunteers to fill a position in your organisation? Our Saturday feature, only for members, advertises your position on our Facebook page, with over 7,500 followers. Email holly@volunteeringwa.org.au to promote your volunteer vacancies.
Please ensure your volunteering role is on VIKTOR so that we can link the Facebook post straight through to the Volunteering WA website.
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West Leederville WA 6007