Geelong, Australia



Volunteering in Geelong

By Betsy Burlingame

CitizenM
CitizenM

Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Geelong. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.

Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into the local community of Geelong. It offers a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, learn about the city's culture, and make a positive impact. By dedicating your time and skills to a cause, you can build lasting connections and gain a deeper understanding of your new home. Geelong has a vibrant volunteering scene with numerous organizations catering to various interests and skills.

Geelong Food Relief Centre

The Geelong Food Relief Centre is dedicated to providing emergency food relief to those in need. Volunteers help with food sorting, packing, and distribution. To get involved, you can fill out a volunteer application form on their website. Volunteers typically commit to a weekly or fortnightly shift of 3-4 hours.

Website: geelongfoodrelief.org
Location(s): North Geelong
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week or fortnight

Barwon Health

Barwon Health is one of the largest regional health services in Victoria, offering volunteers a range of roles from patient support to administration. New volunteers are required to attend an orientation session. The time commitment varies depending on the role but is usually a weekly or fortnightly shift of 2-4 hours.

Website: barwonhealth.org.au/get-involved/volunteering
Location(s): Various locations in the Barwon region
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week or fortnight

Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS)

GAWS is committed to providing care and finding homes for abandoned and surrendered animals. Volunteers can assist with animal care, fundraising, and events. To get involved, fill out a volunteer application form on their website. Volunteers typically commit to one shift per week, lasting 3-4 hours.

Website: gaws.org.au
Location(s): Moolap
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week

Diversitat

Diversitat is a non-profit organization supporting cultural diversity and social inclusion. Volunteers can help with events, programs, and administrative tasks. To become a volunteer, express your interest through their website. The time commitment varies depending on the role but is usually flexible.

Website: diversitat.org.au/volunteer
Location(s): Various locations in Geelong
Time Commitment: Flexible

Timehelp

Timehelp is a volunteer-run organization that provides practical assistance to elderly and disabled residents. Volunteers help with tasks such as gardening, transport, and minor home maintenance. To get involved, contact Timehelp directly. Volunteers typically commit to one task per month, taking around 2-3 hours.

Website: timehelp.org.au
Location(s): Geelong and surrounding areas
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per month

Karingal

Karingal provides support and services to people with a disability. Volunteers can assist with various programs and activities. To become a volunteer, express your interest through their website. The time commitment varies depending on the role but is usually a weekly or fortnightly shift of 2-3 hours.

Website: karingal.org.au/volunteer
Location(s): Various locations in Geelong
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week or fortnight

Geelong Botanic Gardens

The Geelong Botanic Gardens welcomes volunteers to assist with garden maintenance, tours, and events. To get involved, contact the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens. Volunteers typically commit to one shift per week, lasting 3-4 hours.

Website: geelongbotanicgardens.com.au/get-involved/volunteering
Location(s): Eastern Park, Geelong
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week

Salvation Army Geelong

The Salvation Army in Geelong provides various services to support the community, including emergency relief and care programs. Volunteers can help with tasks such as sorting donations, assisting in the opportunity shop, or supporting community programs. To get involved, contact the Salvation Army directly. The time commitment varies depending on the role but is usually a weekly or fortnightly shift of 3-4 hours.

Website: salvationarmy.org.au/geelong
Location(s): Geelong
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week or fortnight

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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