Location: Frankston area, the whole of the Mornington Peninsula and Cardinia Shire
Postition type: Voluntary
Hours: 2 or more hours per fortnight.
Required commitment: One year
Support: Full staff support, training and supervision - after hours phone support
Program: Child and Family Support

The value of one positive role model in a young person's life has been shown to be very powerful - you could be that one person to a child in need. From kicking a football, going to the library, assisting with school projects to walking on the beach laughing and having fun. The activities within the role can vary, but it's the relationship that matters.

As a Volunteer in this role you would be investing in a young person, usually aged 8 to 13 who has limited positive role models able to spend one-on-one quality time with them. The activities you undertake with them will be tailored to suit the young person's needs and interests, but could include kicking a football, cooking, shopping, supporting them to participate in a sporting activity. You might teach them how to repair or maintain their bike, or show them how to develop good study habits. You may show them how to make the most of their local library and help them put together school projects.

Most of all, your role is that of a trusted "buddy" who they can look up to, learn from and develop a potentially life-changing relationship with. This role is only suitable to those who can commit to a minimum of 12 months as it has been shown that a mentor who withdraws in under 12 months of being match can do more harm than good.

You would receive guidance and support from your Volunteer Coordinator and be invited to attend regular Volunteer Support Meetings and Professional Development opportunities throughout the year.

Some of the reasons families might need this kind of support include social isolation, lack of resources, changes in relationships, mental health, financial circumstances or lack of positive role models or extended family.

Skills required

• The ability to see things from someone else's point of view
• Empathic and non-judgemental viewpoint
• Resourcefulness, such as being able to source low-cost or free activities suitable for the age of the child
• A willingness to have fun and laugh
• A good listening ear. Be focussed on helping to build stronger family relationships
• Be physically up to the challenge of keeping up with a young person

Requirements

• Easy access to volunteering area
• Driver's license preferred, but not essential. Self-motivated
• Able to work unsupervised, but within program guidelines
• Working with Children Check card
• 100 points of ID for National Criminal Check (Police Check)

Volunteer and Carer position online enquiry form