About Lou's Place

Lou's Place is a unique, community-based daytime drop-in centre for women in crisis, located in Redfern. We provide a safe, supportive space for women facing homelessness, domestic and/or family violence, financial hardship, addiction, mental health challenges, and social isolation. We operate through a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach - meeting each woman where she's at, with dignity and respect. Lou's Place welcomes women of all backgrounds and identities. We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for First Nations women, LGBTQIA+ women, and culturally and linguistically diverse women.

The Volunteer Sewing Role

You will work alongside other volunteers and staff to support the running of a weekly sewing group at Lou's Place. Your role will be to help set up the space and equipment, facilitate the session, and assist women with their sewing projects. This includes offering guidance, encouragement, and practical support as needed. You will also help create a warm, inclusive atmosphere, and pack up at the end of the session. The group runs on Mondays from 10:15am-12:15pm, with volunteer shifts from 10:00am-12:30pm. Our friendly team will provide training and support to help you feel confident in your role.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up sewing machines, materials and equipment

• Facilitate the sewing session and provide support to participants

• Foster a safe, harmonious, and welcoming group environment

• Assist women with sewing techniques and troubleshooting

• Pack away equipment and maintain a tidy, respectful shared space

Volunteer Requirements

• Must identify as a woman

• Intermediate or higher sewing skills

• Confidence in guiding and supporting others in a group setting

• A compassionate and trauma-informed approach

• Friendly, patient communication skills

• Able to commit weekly or fortnightly for at least 12 months

• A desire to support women from diverse and vulnerable backgrounds

• A collaborative approach and ability to work as part of a team

• Awareness of and respect for cultural, political, and ethnic diversity, including a strong commitment to inclusion of First Nations peoples and the LGBTQIA+ community

Why volunteer at Lou's Place?

Volunteering at Lou's Place is a chance to be part of something truly special. You'll gain hands-on experience facilitating creative activities and supporting women who have experienced significant trauma. You'll connect with a passionate team and build relationships with women who are rebuilding their lives. Most importantly, you'll be making a genuine and lasting impact.

Required Checks

All volunteers must complete the following before starting:

• Working with Children Check

• National Police Check

• Volunteer Application Form

• Lou's Place Volunteer Induction session

If you are interested in becoming a valued part of the Lou's Place community, please hit the APPLY button below.