Be the difference. Share your time, skills, and kindness.
At Mind Connections Foundation, volunteers are the heart of everything we do — from weekly connections to annual celebrations. Whether you’re looking to give back, gain experience, or simply make meaningful connections, we invite you to join our mission to support mental wellbeing and community inclusion.

Opportunities

1. Weekly Wellness Hub Volunteers

Bringing connection and care, one week at a time.
Support our Weekly Wellness Hub for older women experiencing social isolation. You could help with setting up the space, guiding gentle activities, serving morning tea, or simply offering a warm smile and good conversation. This is a perfect ongoing role for volunteers who value regular connection and quiet impact.

You can volunteer for:

• Companion volunteers (chat, support, engage)
• Activity support (crafts, mindfulness, movement)
• Set-up and pack-down
• Transport support

2. Event Volunteers – Annual Programs

Help bring our big days to life.
We host a range of inclusive, uplifting community events that celebrate diversity, mental health, and wellbeing. From International Women’s Day to the Pawsitive Steps Festival and the Women’s Wellness Retreat, we need your energy and enthusiasm to help us create memorable, meaningful experiences.

Events include:

• International Women’s Day (March)
• Pawsitive Steps Mental Health Festival (mid-year)
• International Men’s Day (November)
• Women’s Wellness Retreat (Spring time)
• Academic Award Presentation (Western Sydney University)

Roles vary by event and may include:

• Event set-up/pack-down
• Welcoming and registration
• Info booths or guest support
• Dog-friendly volunteers (Pawsitive Steps)
• Logistics and behind-the-scenes support

3. Community Champions & Cultural Connectors

Amplify voices. Build bridges.
We welcome volunteers from all walks of life — especially those who can help us engage with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, seniors, and youth. If you speak another language, understand a specific community’s needs, or want to help us connect more deeply with underrepresented groups, this is for you.

Opportunities include:

• Cultural liaison support
• Translating materials
• Promoting programs locally
• Sharing lived experience stories
• Facilitating warm referrals

4. Skills-Based & Professional Volunteers

Offer your skills with purpose.
If you’re a professional, retired, or studying in fields like health, marketing, design, admin, counselling, or community services, we’d love your support. We welcome skilled volunteers who can help behind the scenes or contribute to special projects.

Examples:

• Graphic design or website updates
• Photography/videography at events
• Administrative support
• Counselling, mentoring or group facilitation (by arrangement)
• Grant writing or fundraising

Ready to get started? Fill out our simple All-In-One Volunteer Form to tell us about your interests, availability, and skills. We’ll be in touch to match you with opportunities that fit your heart and your schedule.

Volunteers are the heart of what we do — and we honour your time, contribution, and commitment in every possible way. Here’s how we give back to you:

🤝 Professional Growth & Mentoring

• Personalised Mentoring: Access to the skilled and professional director board for mentoring in areas such as mental health, community work, organisational skills, business development, or leadership.
  Especially beneficial for young volunteers exploring career pathways.
• Skill Development: Hands-on experience in event planning, teamwork, community outreach, admin, digital content, and more.
• Workplace Readiness: Build soft skills — communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity — valued across industries.

📜 Recognition & Credentials

• Volunteer Certificate of Contribution: Official certificate with dates, areas of work, and hours served — valuable for job and university applications. High school students who engaged in Duke of Ed or University programs regularly gains benefits from these activities.
• Letters of Recommendation: Available upon request for outstanding volunteers, written by our team or board members.
• Volunteer Hours Log: For students and others tracking their volunteer hours (including for Duke of Edinburgh, Centrelink requirements, or university service).

💼 Identity & Purpose

• Team Belonging: Be part of an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive community that values every voice.
• ID Badge: Foundation-branded volunteer badge for use at events and programs.
• Role Clarity: Clear descriptions and expectations, so you always feel confident in your contribution.

🎉 Appreciation & Community

• Volunteer Appreciation Events: Dedicated gatherings each year to celebrate your contributions — with food, fun, and heartfelt recognition.
• Nomination of outstanding volunteers: When your contribution is above and beyond, it will not go unnoticed. We will applaud your special talents and skills.
• Spotlight Stories: We proudly share volunteer stories on our website or social media (with permission).
• Event Perks: Behind-the-scenes access, priority roles, and community recognition at our major events.

🧠 Wellbeing & Support

• Mental Health Awareness: As part of a mental health-focused foundation, you’ll always have access to wellbeing resources and a compassionate environment.
• Supportive Supervision: We check in regularly and welcome feedback to improve your experience.

💌 Additional Perks

• Flexible Roles: Match with activities that suit your availability, interests, and strengths.
• Reference for Grants & Scholarships: Especially helpful for students or early-career professionals applying for competitive awards.
• Inclusive Access: We embrace volunteers from all walks of life — including CALD, LGBTIQ+, seniors, students, and those with lived experience of mental illness.

Mind Connections Foundation Volunteer Program

1. Who can volunteer with Mind Connections Foundation?

Anyone aged 18 and over who shares our values of compassion, inclusion, and community care is welcome. We encourage people of all backgrounds — seniors, students, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals, LGBTIQ+ community members, carers, and those with lived experience of mental health challenges.

2. Do I need specific qualifications or experience?

No prior experience is necessary for most roles. Some positions, such as those involving children or sensitive tasks, may require a Working with Children Check (WWCC) or a National Police Check. We provide training and support for all volunteers.

3. What types of activities can I help with?

You can volunteer for almost all of our events, board activities. These may consists of but not limited to:

• Weekly Wellness Hub – support isolated elderly women through social connection activities.
• Annual Events – such as International Women’s Day, Pawsitive Steps Festival, Men’s Mental Health Day, and the Women’s Wellness Retreat.
• Behind-the-Scenes Roles – administration, photography, marketing, or fundraising.
• One-off Projects or Outreach Activities – community engagement or stall support.

4. How much time do I need to commit?

We value all contributions. You can volunteer weekly, monthly, or for one-off events. Our all-in-one application form lets you indicate your availability and preferences.

5. Is volunteering suitable for students or people seeking job experience?

Yes! We offer mentoring, certificates, and skill development opportunities that are ideal for students or anyone seeking to build their CV or career readiness.

6. Will I receive training or induction?

Yes. All volunteers receive a warm welcome, role-specific guidance, and ongoing support. Special roles receive further induction or training when needed.

7. Are there any background checks required?

Yes. Depending on your role, we may ask for a:

• Working With Children Check (WWCC)
• National Police CheckWe will guide you through the process if required.

8. Can I volunteer as part of a group or corporate team?

Yes! We welcome group volunteering (e.g. schools, corporate social responsibility days). Please contact us in advance to tailor an activity that suits your group.

9. Will I be reimbursed for expenses?

In general, volunteers are not paid, but some roles may be eligible for reimbursement of pre-approved expenses, such as travel or supplies. Please speak with us before incurring any costs.

10. Will I be recognised for my work?

Absolutely. We celebrate our volunteers with appreciation events, certificates, spotlight features, and recommendation letters upon request. You are deeply valued here.

11. How do I apply to become a volunteer?

Simple! Fill in our All-in-One Volunteer Form [insert link], and our team will get in touch with you to match you with a suitable role.

12. Who do I contact for more information?

Email us at mindconnectionsfoundation@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help.