At this time of year, we come together to recognise and celebrate our wonderful volunteers for all the ways they contribute to SHINE for Kids.
To mark National Volunteer Week, we are putting some of our many incredible volunteers in the spotlight, please meet …. Stephanie!
How long have you been volunteering with SHINE for Kids?
I have been volunteering with SHINE for Kids for about eight weeks now, through my university placement.
What inspired you to apply to volunteer with SHINE for Kids?
I still remember Cilla [SHINE team member] coming into James Cook University about three years ago to a placement workshop where she explained what SHINE for Kids was all about.
Just from that workshop, I felt as if this organisation was going to go places and it certainly has.
Just from that day, I knew this would be a place I would like to be involved within.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
SHINE for Kids has so many opportunities and activities to get involved in when volunteering.
Seeing the children grow and blossom throughout their journey with SHINE for Kids is so amazing to see. Even just seeing how important it is not only for the children but also the parents/caregivers when running programs like Stay Together, Play Together.
What impact do you think you have made?
I think it is way too early to tell the impact that I have made as a volunteer, but it has definitely been amazing to see just how far some of the children have come through the support of the RISE Education program.
What has been your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moment so far within SHINE for Kids would be attending the RISE educational holiday program.
As a volunteer I was able to support and assist the staff members on providing activities on the day for the children. Another volunteer and I from James Cook University were able to create a cultural scavenger hunt for the children to complete on the day.
When this activity was run, it was nice to see the children connect with and understand Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture within Townsville.
While you’re here, we need your help. Our amazing volunteers can only do so much, we also rely on the support and kind donations of the community to continue to run our many programs across NSW, Vic, WA, Qld and the ACT.
It’s only with continued support that we can be there to reach out to and walk beside children and families as they navigate one of the toughest times in their lives. We are changing futures, one child at a time. Evey bit counts. Please donate today. Thank you!
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