Darebin Information, Volunteer & Resource Service (DIVRS) is a volunteer powered community organisation that provides free services, programs and information for people who live, study and volunteer in Darebin. Our mission is to connect people to opportunity, community and support.

We have a focus on working with people who experience systemic or economic disadvantage and exclusion. We reduce financial stress and social isolation. We increase access to community information and build capability. We promote health and well-being, inclusion and sustainability.

DIVRS offers a service that is free, confidential and impartial and recognises peoples’ right to make their own decisions. DIVRS has been supporting the Darebin community for over 30 years. We have a small part-time staff and a strong model of volunteer engagement with over 100 passionate and committed volunteers and students across our programs.

In this role you will work with the Urban Food Leader to:

• Facilitate a weekly DUG session

• Ensure all systems, including composting and harvesting, are running smoothly in the Preston HQ garden.

• Identify potential problems in the garden and resolve them.

• Develop operational procedures and train volunteers in site-specific practices.

• Communicate important information to Darebin Urban Gardeners (DUG).

• Plan for the future of the garden.

• Identify volunteer needs and assign suitable volunteers for each role.

• Educate and remind volunteers about composting, plant-specific cultivation, harvest, and soil health.

• Manage volunteer roster and facilitate DUG to fill empty shifts.

• Provide support to volunteers, addressing their suggestions, concerns and requests.

• Monitor the urban food volunteers email.

• Monitor the WhatsApp group and respond to garden-related queries.

Useful Qualifications (desired but not essential):

• Home gardening experience required.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Inclusive and supportive behaviour so all people you work with at DIVRS and community members feel welcome and supported.

• Resonate with our values and bring kindness, a willingness to listen and positivity to how you work.

Desired but not essential: • Current Drivers License • Horticulture or Permaculture qualifications or skills • Grant writing experience