Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at Aftercare
Aftercare provides a variety of volunteering opportunities, ranging from arts programs and projects through to assisting clients develop necessary life skills such as communication and budgeting.
We also welcome corporate involvement in areas such as information technology, marketing and project development.
Expressions of Interest
If you are interested in volunteering at Aftercare, submit an Expression of Interest to peopleandculture@aftercare.com.au including the following:
– A copy of your resume outlining your work experience and education
– A cover letter outlining in what capacity you would like to volunteer, your availability and preferred location/s
If an Aftercare service has an opportunity for volunteer work, the Manager will contact you directly to discuss further and arrange an interview. See the Frequently Asked Questions below for more information about volunteering at Aftercare.
Volunteer FAQ’s
Where can I volunteer and what can I do?
Aftercare has a wide range of volunteer opportunities across New South Wales and Queensland. Call or send us an email to find out more.
What kind of volunteer work is on offer?
We have a selection of roles, ranging from assisting clients to develop household skills, including managing their personal finances, budgeting, cooking and gardening, through to tutoring, coaching, writing and editing, performing arts programs, executive and administrative support, and fundraising.
Do I have to make a long-term commitment?
That is up to you. Your commitment to any volunteer position is determined by your circumstances, interests and the timeframe in which the position is available. If you want to leave, all we ask is that you give us as much notice as possible.
When can I perform my volunteering, and how many hours are involved?
Most volunteering with Aftercare occurs during office hours. Occasionally, volunteer programs run during the evenings and on weekends. Each volunteer role is different, as are the hours. You are able to advise the amount of hours you are available per week on your Expression of Interest and can discuss this during the interview process.
Can I volunteer with my family or friends?
Some volunteering opportunities are available for groups—although there is more choice available for individuals. Two or more people can easily work together in volunteer work such as fundraising or client outings.
Do I need to have experience or be qualified?
This depends entirely on the role. Attitude and experience are very important. Some volunteer roles require specific job skills or qualifications, while others need a willingness to learn.
What is the interview process?
Our interview process gives you and us the chance to assess each other and an opportunity to ask questions. We want to make sure that you are well-matched to a volunteer opportunity.
We might ask questions such as:
– Why are you interested in volunteering?
– What sort of volunteer work interests you?
– What skills do you already have?
– What new skills would you like to develop while volunteering with us?
– How much time can you allocate to your volunteer work?
You might want to ask questions such as:
– Does Aftercare cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses?
– What training opportunities are available?
– What is involved in the role?
– What support and supervision will be available from the volunteer coordinator or team leader?
– Am I covered by insurance?
Do I need references?
Yes, all volunteers are required to provide two references.
Do I need a background check?
Yes, it is a legislative requirement in both New South Wales and Queensland.
What happens if I start volunteering but I decide to leave?
You are not obliged to remain in a volunteer position if you are unhappy. However, as your issues might be able to be addressed, talk with your supervisor, manager or volunteer coordinator before giving notice. As Aftercare has a grievance procedure, if you feel strongly that something should be done to address a situation, you can access this process to seek a resolution. If you are leaving your role for other reasons, as much notice as possible would be appreciated.
What can I do afterwards?
The skills and experiences that you gain while volunteering are not only useful for careers and life generally but also may enhance your resume. We would be more than happy to provide you with a reference for the work you have done with us. Volunteer work is often an excellent way to road-test a new career or to secure paid employment.
Will volunteering cost me anything?
If you are asked to purchase anything on behalf of the organisation, you will be fully reimbursed.
Student Placements
Student/Work Placement at Aftercare
Aftercare offers a variety of opportunities for those who want to get involved, including work experience and internships. We provide everyday support for people experiencing mental illness to create opportunities to enable them to live a fulfilling and enriched life.
Our work experience and intern programs provide practical on-the-job training that allows you to be an integral part in changing the lives of people experiencing mental illness. You get to work among people who truly care about members of this community and the issues they face.
When you become part of Aftercare you will be challenged to view problems and possible solutions from a broader perspective—one that will enable you to learn through experience and evolve from well-educated students into experienced professionals. You’ll also see how your talents will contribute to creating positive change in the lives of others—and, consequently, in your own life.
Our workplace environment encourages individual learning and growth, affording you the opportunity to develop skills in a very satisfying, exciting and rewarding career. At the same time, you also have a wonderful opportunity to give something back to the community and make a difference.
Expressions of Interest
If you are interested in completing your student placement at Aftercare, submit an Expression of Interest to peopleandculture@aftercare.com.au including the following:
– A copy of your resume outlining your work experience and education
– A cover letter outlining the qualification you are studying, any requirements of your placement (eg. hours or specific practical experience), and your preferred location/s
If an Aftercare service has an opportunity to take on a Student Placement, the Manager will contact you directly to discuss further and arrange an interview.
Donate
“You can change lives by simply donating today.”
Aftercare is a not-for-profit organisation delivering essential care services to those living with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, as well as their families and carers. We rely on funding from the NSW, Queensland, WA and Federal Governments to provide the bulk of our services.
Donations to Aftercare are used for educating the broader community on mental health, as well as for developing and delivering new services.
Donations from individuals and organisations also help Aftercare to undertake or commission high quality independent research into a diverse array of mental health issues such as the stigma of mental illness and the challenges of being a carer and so on.
Sum of Money You Wish to Donate
