Community Services students learn about giving back to their industry

Tuesday, 12 March 2019

Professionals from industry shared their expertise recently with students commencing in the Certificate IV in Community Services. From diverse organisations within the Community Services sector, guest speakers from Albury Wodonga Health’s Community Palliative Care, Junction Health’s Youth Mentoring Program, Wodonga Council Volunteer Program, Murray Valley Sanctuary Refugee Group, Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau and CareVan were invited on campus to speak with students.

The guest speakers were arranged by Community Services teacher Ms Cathy Prior, who said the industry representatives would be speaking to students about each of their individual organisations, and about the variety of opportunities that were available to volunteer within each of their organisations.

“Many community services and health organisations have a team of volunteers who provide support for clients, visitors and staff as an important part of the team”, said Ms Prior, “And we strongly recommend that our students become involved in volunteering. This increases their awareness of the sector that they are seeking future employment in.”

There are a range of opportunities available to people who are keen to volunteer. Whether students can spare a couple of hours a week, or make a regular commitment per month, there are roles to suit everyone’s availability. Whatever a person’s skills, experience and motivation, there can be an opportunity to help out, to make a difference to the community, as well as the organisation they are working for and the people they assist.

“Volunteering helps our students build their skills and build networks within their chosen industry”, continued Ms Prior. “Giving time to a worthy cause can be infinitely rewarding for all involved; for the students and for the organisations they volunteer for, and for the people who the organisation helps.”