Volunteer Newsletter

Dear Volunteers,

Spring is here! As the flowers begin to bloom and the days grow warmer, we’re reminded of the beauty and renewal that spring brings. Among these blooming flowers, the sunflower stands out—not just for its vibrant colour, but also for its deeper meaning.

The sunflower has become an international symbol for invisible disabilities, representing strength, resilience, and the unseen challenges that many people face every day. As we embrace the new season, let’s also take a moment to recognise and support those in our community who carry invisible burdens. (If you're interested in learning more about the Sunflower symbol for hidden disabilities, we’ve included additional information below.)

Volunteer West is the volunteer resource centre of Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS). Our aim is to promote volunteering and community participation because we believe it is a fantastic way to enhance personal well-being while building a strong and resilient community.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering and staying engaged with community activities. We hope our newsletters provide you with valuable insights and community information about the western suburbs of Melbourne.

We would love to have you follow us on our Facebook and LinkedIn so our content can reach out to more people.

The Sunflower Symbol for Invisible Disabilities

The sunflower has become an internationally recognised symbol for invisible disabilities. But what does it mean, and why was this particular flower chosen?

What are Invisible Disabilities?
Invisible disabilities are conditions that aren't immediately apparent, such as autism, chronic pain, or mental health issues. These conditions can present daily challenges that are not visible to others.

Why the Sunflower?
The sunflower symbol represents strength, resilience, and the unseen challenges many people face daily. It was chosen for its bright and positive image, making it a powerful symbol of support and understanding.

How is it Used?
The sunflower symbol, often seen on lanyards or badges, signals that the wearer may need extra support or patience. Originating in the UK, the symbol is now used internationally, including in Australia, to promote understanding.

Supporting Invisible Disabilities
When you see the sunflower, it’s a reminder to offer kindness and understanding. Small gestures, like a smile or a bit of extra patience, can make a big difference.

You can learn more about it here.

Volunteer West Update

Outreach at Laverton AMEP

On the 5th of August, the Volunteer West team had the opportunity to visit the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) classes at Laverton Community Education Centre. We shared information about the benefits of volunteering to the students, particularly how it can support English practice, skill development, and gaining valuable experience.

Our volunteers, Kushal and Daniel, also stepped up to present in the class, sharing how volunteering at Volunteer West has positively impacted them personally. We were incredibly proud to see them take on the challenge of public speaking, which can be quite intimidating, and to witness how much they have learned and grown since they first started volunteering with us.

Following our visit, several students reached out to us to take advantage of our one-on-one services, expressing interest in volunteering as a way to further their learning and integration into the community. We hope our presentation raised awareness and sparked interest in volunteering, as it could be a wonderful way for the students to feel more engaged and connected in their new environment.

Multicultural Leadership Training Program - Graduation Ceremony

On the 21st of August, Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) proudly hosted a graduation ceremony to celebrate 50 graduates of our Multicultural Leadership Training Program, delivered in partnership with Changepreneurs. The ceremony, held at the Parliament of Victoria, was graced by many VIPs and inspiring speakers who motivated our future leaders as they embark on their next journey.

AMCS is dedicated to connecting and supporting our diverse community. Learn more about our impactful projects here.

Community Snapshot

Volunteer West is presenting “An Introduction to Volunteering” at the Wyndham Learning Festival.

If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering and speaking with a few organisations about their volunteer roles, you can register here.

The Wyndham Learning Festival happening on 1-7 September also offers over 90 free events. You can browse other events here.

Art Against Ageism Competition

Only one week left until the submission deadline!

AMCS is thrilled to announce the fourth annual “AMCS Art Against Ageism” Competition, and we invite you to join us in this unique opportunity. Through your artwork, showcase the beauty, diverse capabilities, and mindset of senior people, and help challenge the negative stereotypes of ageing.

Competition Details: To enter our competition, use your artistic skills to portray positive ageing and show the beauty, diverse capabilities & mindset of our senior community. To encourage wide ranging participation from all ages and talents, we welcome entries in any chosen artistic medium, with the exception of an AI-generated image.

Submission Process: Simply complete the online entry form here and upload a photo or scan of your artwork using the drop file button within the form.

Prizes: With thanks to our sponsors, we have been able to increase our prizes and have a total of 12 cash prizes:

First prize $1500
Runner up $1000
Finalist – ten finalists will each receive $250

Submission Deadline: 11.59pm (Melbourne Time), 8 September 2024

Featured Volunteer Roles

Senior Support & Companionship Volunteers

Our organisation is always looking for volunteers that can assist us to provide support and companionship to our clients. With just a couple hours a week or a fortnight, you can make a difference to someone’s lives.
If you are interested, please email us at vss @amcservices.org.au.

Sunshine Baseball Club

is looking for volunteers that passionate in community services to help them with maintenance and supporting the club.

1. Rooms and Grounds Assistant
🔧 Help maintain our facilities and keep our grounds in top shape.
👉 Learn more and apply here

2. Canteen Assistant
🍔 Assist with running our canteen, serving food, and managing supplies. 👉 Lear more and apply here

📍 Location: 5 Talmage Street, Albion, VIC, 3020

Kowanj Australasia Limited

is a North Melbourne-based charity committed to social inclusion and economic empowerment, providing tailored services to disadvantaged African-Australian and CALD communities. They are looking for HR and Marketing assistant volunteers that could help them make a positive impact.

1. HR Assistant
🗂️ Assist with HR tasks and gain valuable experience in human resources.
👉 Learn more and apply here

2. Marketing Assistant
📈 Support the marketing efforts and enhance your skills in a dynamic environment.
👉 To learn more and apply for Marketing Assistant here

The Caroline Chisholm Society

is seeking a passionate and talented Pro Bono Photographer to help them capture the stories of the families they support.

The Caroline Chisholm Society (the Society) is an agency providing a range of support and assistance to pregnant women and parents with young children.

As a Pro Bono Photographer, you’ll enjoy:

The chance to collaborate with a meaningful not-for-profit organisation.
A valuable opportunity to build your portfolio and enhance your personal brand.
Recognition for your work across our social media platforms.
Potential reimbursement for travel and time.

If you are interested, please contact Dinushka O’Neill at doneill@caroline.org.au. You can learn more about the role here.

Our Online Volunteer Roles

Volunteer West is the Volunteer Resource Centre of Australian Multicultural Community Services. ABN: 69 022 519 263

The Sunflower Symbol for Invisible Disabilities

Volunteer West Update

Outreach at Laverton AMEP

Multicultural Leadership Training Program - Graduation Ceremony

Community Snapshot

Art Against Ageism Competition

Featured Volunteer Roles

Senior Support & Companionship Volunteers

Sunshine Baseball Club

Kowanj Australasia Limited

The Caroline Chisholm Society

Our Online Volunteer Roles

Community Services

Companionship

Emergency relief

Op Shop

Youth

Tutoring

Mentoring

Administration and marketing