Volunteering makes a meaningful impact and positively impacts the lives of others facing significant challenges in Western Australia.
Shaik Sayed was drawn to do an internship with Ronald McDonald House Charities WA as a university student at the University of Western Australia, even though he had several internship opportunities.
“What resonated deeply with me was RMHC WA’s status as a not-for-profit organisation, as it aligned with my personal values of making a meaningful impact," he said.
“The organisation’s commitment to easing the burden on families during challenging times and ensuring that families receive the support they need truly inspired me. I found myself deeply admiring RMHC WA’s work, and the chance to be a part of an organisation that directly improves vulnerable populations’ lives was incredibly motivating.”
After completing the internship, Shaik transitioned to volunteering with RMHC WA. “This experience has motivated me to continue my involvement with RMHC WA as a volunteer. I want to continue supporting this admirable mission by devoting my time and skills to helping families during tough times.
“I was genuinely moved by the organisation’s unwavering commitment to supporting the community, particularly by creating a nurturing environment for patients and their families. Seeing firsthand the incredible impact RMHC WA has on the lives of those in need has left a profound impression on me," he added.
Shaik volunteers in the Ronald McDonald House Family Room.
“Throughout my internship and volunteer work, I've truly understood the significant challenges that families in WA face, especially those who have to travel long distances to get treatment at Perth Children’s Hospital. It’s incredibly tough for these families to manage without a temporary place to stay, and RMHC WA plays a crucial role by offering such accommodations."
Shaik now volunteers fortnightly in the Ronald McDonald House Family Room in Perth Children's Hospital Fun on Four precinct, a dedicated space where the whole family can take a break in between hospital appointments.
His role as an activity agent has enabled Shaik to make a genuine impact on the lives of the families he has encountered. “Volunteering has allowed me to connect with families in a meaningful way. It allows me to truly understand and empathise with their struggles and offer the support they need,” he said.
“For instance, I vividly remember a 12-year-old boy who was visibly anxious about his upcoming surgery, and his mother was equally worried. I dedicated my time to talking with him, helping to calm his nerves, and eventually, we found ourselves playing basketball outside, with his parents joining in. At that moment, it felt like they were just a family having fun, not patients awaiting surgery.
“Moments like these are why this work is so important to me – knowing that I can help make a challenging time a little bit easier for these families is incredibly rewarding.”
Value of volunteering
Shaik wholeheartedly encourages individuals, particularly young people, to consider participating in volunteer opportunities like those at RMHC WA. “Engaging in such experiences provides a deep understanding of real-world challenges and nurtures creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills," he explained.
“From a professional standpoint, volunteering helps to cultivate essential skills such as communication and teamwork, which are invaluable in any career. Most importantly, if you genuinely desire to make a meaningful impact on your community, there’s no better place to start. The sense of fulfilment that comes from knowing you've helped brighten someone's day during a difficult time is incomparable.”
Recently, as part of National Student Volunteer Week, the Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA acknowledged the contribution of student volunteers, with some students from North Metropolitan TAFE, Curtin University, Murdoch Guild, Wesley College and Mercedes College volunteering with the organisation to help with events and activities over the past year.
Volunteers with the Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA help the organisation with events and activities.
“Over recent years, the MNDAWA has expanded relationships with TAFEs, universities and senior high schools as a resource for volunteers. The students who have joined us have been enthusiastic and have supported our events and initiatives positively," MNDAWA partnerships and community engagement manager Sarah Wiley said.
"In return, we have a lot to offer these students which can contribute to their learning, their life skills and broader experience."
Volunteers at Foyer Oxford
Anglicare WA's Foyer Oxford, a cutting-edge youth housing service located on Oxford Street in Leederville, helps young people aged 16-24 have a place to stay while working towards education and training. It is the largest single-site homelessness service for young people in Australia.
Run by a consortium of Foundation Housing Ltd, Anglicare WA and North Metropolitan TAFE, Foyer relies on the help of volunteers to deliver workshops and opportunities for young people in the Foyer community.
Foyer Oxford in Leederville.
One volunteer, who has been with Foyer for almost three years, offered 21 sessions in the past six months, including weekly sewing and craft session where young people can learn to sew and a monthly cooking class for young people to learn how to cook from recipes. Another volunteer runs a weekly study club, providing a space for young people to receive support and accountability while studying or completing assignments.
As part of a review of the induction process to support and increase its pool of active volunteers, new volunteers at Foyer now attend several community dinners as part of their initial engagement in the Foyer community. This offers a comfortable space to get to know the Foyer residents while giving volunteers a better understanding of how the operation runs. "This has proved to be a successful shift in the onboarding process with 14 community dinners attended by volunteers between March and June," Anglicare WA chief executive Mark Glasson said.
"Beyond community dinners, the consistency and kindness that our volunteers bring to their roles at Foyer have continued to create a range of opportunities for young people to engage in the Foyer community," Mr Glasson said.
"Not only are young people finding a sense of community and enjoyment in the activities that are facilitated by volunteers, but their social connection and interaction plays a positive role outside of the sessions also. Overall, the volunteering offer at Foyer is a highly valued contribution for young people."
