Volunteering

Victoria’s Volunteering Portal

The Volunteering Portal is an online community and information resource for Victorian volunteers and volunteering organisations. The website aims to inform, support and inspire everyone involved in volunteering through:
  • A comprehensive matching tool linking volunteers with volunteering opportunities across rural, regional and metropolitan Victoria
  • Detailed information for prospective and current volunteers about how, where and why to volunteer
  • A central source of best practice information, tools and resources for volunteer managers, coordinators and others involved in running volunteer organisations
  • Opportunities to share stories, recognise achievements, give feedback and learn through others in the volunteering community
  • A free web presence for large, medium and small Victorian volunteer-based organisations (to be launched later in 2010)
  • Online discussion and collaboration tools to help share knowledge, pool resources and build a vibrant online community of volunteers and volunteer organisations (to be launched later in 2011)
Visit Victoria’s Volunteering Portal.

Volunteering creates healthier people in healthier communities

Volunteering is a great way for people, regardless of their age, cultural background, location or circumstances, to get involved in the community. It can bring immense personal satisfaction for the volunteer as well as making communities more active, confident and resilient.

Volunteers are the life blood of communities across Victoria and everyone’s contribution is valued. Volunteering also has significant benefits for both the individual and the community as a whole.

Victorian communities can grow in depth and strength through the efforts of volunteers and volunteering organisations. Communities build stronger and more lasting ties, and activities can have continued and long-term effects. These outcomes can be at a practical level such as a revegetation project or at a more emotional level through a renewed sense of community spirit.

For individuals, research shows that people who volunteer report better physical and mental health as well as improved employment opportunities. Volunteering allows people to learn about team work and team building as well as providing a sense of belonging.

Supporting Victorian volunteers

The Victorian Government’s Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) supports Victorian volunteers in two key ways. DPCD provides grants for volunteers and helps to recognise their achievements.

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