A Warehouse Built on People
In May 2025, a member of the Volunteer West team got to visit and did as a casual volunteering session at DIK in West Footscray.
“Take as many as you like; and tell people to come.” - Long’s response when we asked if we could take his photo to promote DIK.)
It was a sunny morning, and the warehouse — tucked among the large sheds of an industrial area on Somerville Road — was already alive. People were coming with donations. Volunteers were sorting school supplies, stacking medical equipment, and preparing shipments for communities overseas.
Colleen, the manager (and also a volunteer), gave us a warm tour of the space. She explained how everything at DIK is run by 100% volunteers — from sorting donations to managing logistics. There is no formal warehouse software or paid staff. Just goodwill, hard work, and dedicated people.
One of those people is Long.
Long is a 79-year-old Vietnamese-Australian who has been volunteering at DIK since 2002. He first came because he wanted to feel connected. Two decades later, he’s still there, every Tuesday and Thursday morning, quietly helping to change the world.
Long doesn’t speak much English. And yet, he’s one of the most trusted people in the warehouse. He knows where everything goes. He teaches new volunteers how to pack and label boxes. He helps load pallets safely. And he does it all with care, warmth, and a gentle smile.
What makes Long’s story so special is not just his commitment — it’s the way the DIK community has embraced him and how everyone works so happily with each other. At DIK, speaking English well isn’t a requirement, what matters is that you show up, that you care, and that you’re willing to help.
Volunteers at DIK enjoying a well-earned morning tea break
Rotary Donations in Kind (DIK) is a large volunteer-run warehouse filled with donated goods. These items are carefully sorted and packed before being shipped to communities in need across Australia and overseas. They are always looking for volunteers.
📍 Tuedays and Thurdays, 9:00am – 2:00pm
📍 Shed 39, 400 Somerville Road, West Footscray
📞 (03) 9315 1544
📩 Enquiries: https://rotarydik.org/email-dik/