What do you do as part of your volunteering at STEPS?
I work with people who drop into STEPS to search for employment. I help with writing cover letters, resumes, and checking emails as well as help people prepare for interviews by practicing answering questions an employer may ask.
How did you come to volunteer at STEPS?[su_pullquote align=”right”]“I feel so appreciated and know that the little steps taken during the drop in sessions are often bigger ones in the lives of the people coming in the doors”.[/su_pullquote] I was encouraged to gain experience with people and working in a team as part of my university course. My teachers wanted their students to develop their people, team and communication skills and gain insight into a broader perspective on challenges people face.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I love seeing a person smile or thank me for helping them use a computer or write a cover letter. Seeing a person grow in confidence after being in a session where I have helped them makes me feel so happy!
Have you experienced any special or memorable moments in your time volunteering for STEPS?
Absolutely, I have loved talking to a lovely fellow who does not speak English as his first language. He is always very patient if I help him fill out any forms – which sometimes have words that are unfamiliar to me! He has a smile on his face and always wants to have a laugh with others. He gave me a hug and expressed his gratitude after I had sat with him for over 2 hours to help in fill in a job application. That hug meant a lot and I know I had made a difference to his life for that day.
What would you say to others who were thinking about volunteering?
If you are interested in volunteering, why not have a go? I feel so appreciated and know that the little steps taken during the drop in sessions are often bigger ones in the lives of the people coming in the doors.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The team at STEPS helped me to feel confident and supported upon beginning my volunteering, and this allowed me to feel capable of providing valuable assistance to people dropping in. I am sure I would have felt more apprehensive without the positive team!
STEPS truly values the role our volunteers play in helping us to help others achieve positive change in their lives. Our volunteers work across a range of different roles, programs and locations. If you would like more information about volunteering at STEPS please give us a call on 54543000 or send us an email at enquiries@stepsgroup.com.au
