Disability Social Outreach Volunteer
Merri Health
**An opportunity has opened up to join Merri Health's Disability Volunteer Services, to be part of our exciting Merri Mates volunteer program. **
** Volunteers are matched with an individual so together they can explore interests and enjoy the community. **
**Sometimes we all need a mate to support us, and to help us feel like we belong. Being a part of the Merri Mates program will make a significant impact to someone’s life. **
People with disabilities experience social isolation and require social support at higher rates. The aim of the Merri Mates program is for people with disabilities to create new social connections, improve independence and strengthen capacity to participate in their local community.
Volunteers work in a one-on-one capacity with adults living with mild to moderate disabilities. Volunteers engage with participants in planned social activities for a few hours per month, supporting participants to engage in a variety of activities tailored to their hobbies, interests, and abilities. Your time and dedication will alleviate social disconnection faced by members of the community who experience disability and enable their over-all wellbeing.
The Merri Mates program is offered to those in the Merri-Bek and surrounding areas. Meetings are held within the community, between work hours Mondays - Fridays. There is flexibility to volunteer remotely via phone or online.
What you’ll need to succeed
Although specific experience is advantageous, it is not required to become a volunteer. We are looking for individuals with:
- A genuine interest in helping others and bringing about actions that make a difference
- A willingness to engage and learn about working with people with disabilities
- Listening and communications skills
- Patience, empathy, curiosity, and friendliness
- A willingness to interact with a range of people from diverse backgrounds
- Accountability and responsibility
- A willingness to provide ongoing feedback to improve the program.
About us
Merri Health creates healthy, connected communities through local health services for people at every age and stage of life. As a not-for-profit organisation, our focus is on partnering with people, responding to local needs, and strengthening the health of entire communities. Our Merri Mates is a social support program matching volunteers to adults living with disability up to the age of 65.
What we offer
- A diverse, inclusive, and flexible environment. We encourage you to bring your whole self to your volunteering service;
- Get hands-on experience in working in the disability sector with a premier community health organisation;
- We’ll support your growth and offer continuous skill development through personalised training;
- Receive a Certificate of Recognition acknowledging your learning, professional experience, and service throughout the program;
- You’ll also get perks like discounted movie passes and memberships;
- You’ll be joining a network of passionate, award-winning Merri Health volunteers;
- Make friends and get support through our exclusive volunteer portal, volunteer appreciation events, and regular social gatherings.
Your next steps
If you’re interested in becoming a Merri Mate volunteer and want to learn more about the program, head to the Merri Health website. Download and complete our Merri Mates volunteer screening form from our website and send it to the Merri Mates team with a copy of your resume. Our Merri Mates Coordinator will email you within 3-5 working days with more information.
**What else do I need to know? **
Required screening and credential checks are a mandatory component of our recruitment process because they help us to provide quality services and a safe environment for our clients while upholding Merri’s values. These checks are designed to minimise risk based on available and relevant information and are not used to screen out individuals with an adverse history from employment. For these reasons, we ask that you complete these required checks:
- National Police Check
- Working with Children Check
Merri Health is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to ensuring a safe environment for children and young people. We encourage individuals of diverse backgrounds including but not limited to those from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse, the LBTQIA+ community, and those living with a disability, to apply.