Purpose of Role

The Community Engagement Support Volunteer is required to support the Australian Syrian Charity’s Program Coordinator with the development and implementation of the community engagement program, with emphasis on women’s connections to the Australian community and pathways to employment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Australian Syrian Charity’s Program Coordinator with the development and implementation of the community engagement program, with emphasis on women’s and young people connections to the Australian community and pathways to volunteering and employment.
• Help organise activities for a women’s group on a monthly basis, including arranging catering, setting up the room, potential logistics for outings and, on the day, trouble-shooting & facilitating.
• Help with childcare during the women’s group gatherings, when needed.
• Contribute to community dinners and events, as well as social English conversation gatherings, where possible. This includes helping with logistics, setting up and packing up the room and provide support to organisers and Board members.
• Be available for regular (weekly/fortnightly) team meetings with the Program Coordinator either at the centre in Brunswick or via conference call.
• Liaise with the Program Coordinator about tasks needed to be completed and best practices.
• Attend community events and social meet ups where possible.
• Be responsible and accountable about your availability.
• Act as a role model and mentor to members of the organisation.
• Maintain a culturally sensitive attitude and avoid discussing topics related to politics or religion, respecting the conservative Christian background of most of the participants.
• Attend inductions, and trainings where possible.
• Record and submit volunteer hours.
• Comply with ASC policies & procedures, identify OHS concerns and communicate these to ASC staff (e.g. report hazards or incidents).
• Keep a record of the sessions and send to program coordinator.

Legislative Requirements

• Ensure compliance with relevant policies and legislative requirements such as Occupational Health & Safety (OHS), the Commonwealth Privacy Act and ASC Child Protection Policy.
• Obtain a Working With Children Check and a Police Check before starting your work with ASC.
• Familiarise yourself with relevant policies, procedures and work practices of ASC

Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated formal or informal educational background and experience in the community or social work sector or a relevant field.
• Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal skills and facilitation skills.
• A strong interest in working with refugees, and a great degree of cultural sensitivity in working with people from CALD and /or complex or vulnerable backgrounds.
• Demonstrated flexibility, patience and cross-cultural communication, especially in building rapport with people.
• Demonstrated flexibility, patience and cross-cultural communication.
• Creative and enthusiastic, with the ability to motivate others.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.

What volunteers gain from their experience with the Australian Syrian Charity

• Valuable work experience & training with a respected NGO (non-government organisation) that can be added to your resume.
• Future references for volunteers completing a successful agreed period.
• A full induction and a supportive and friendly working environment.
• The option to attend regular team meetings.
• Become part of a welcoming Syrian community and participate in community events.
• Dedicated Volunteer Coordinator and other staff to support volunteers.
• Arabic coffee, tea, and biscuits!

People of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from refugees and migrants from countries experiencing conflict/humanitarian crises, international students, and people with disabilities.

Please send a resume and a cover letter addressing the above criteria to be considered for the position.