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Ordinary people, extraordinary impact
Volunteers are often thought to be the lifeblood for a not-for-profit organisation, contributing time, skills and passion that are irreplaceable.
This Volunteer Week, we celebrate all our wonderful volunteers – without which we couldn’t do what we do each day.
We understand that walking into Foodbank for the first time can feel overwhelming – for a customer, especially a new customer, it can be filled with uncertainty, shame and fear of judgement. It’s a very vulnerable moment that takes immense courage and strength.
Often, a customer’s first interaction when they arrive is with a volunteer, not a paid member of staff, and it’s a job that all of our volunteers on the front-line treat seriously with compassion, kindness and patience.
Sam has been a volunteer with Foodbank WA since the beginning of the year and seeing the energy that sparkles behind every smile, you can see why she is so popular with customers old and new.
Sam is between jobs in Administration and Customer Service, and after getting to chat to some of the volunteers when she would bring her mum in for her weekly shop at Foodbank, she thought she would try her hand at joining our amazing and diverse team of volunteers. Initially Sam was in one day, then two then three and now, sometimes five days – depending on how busy the Perth branch is.
Sam says that volunteering at Foodbank is a deeply rewarding experience that goes beyond simply giving her time. It offers her chance to make a real difference to the lives of people who are facing hunger and often, a myriad of other issues.
Each shift brings me a sense of purpose, knowing my efforts help provide meals to those in need. Volunteering at Foodbank brings me a sense of empathy, gratitude, and a stronger connection to my community. It’s inspiring to work alongside passionate volunteers and staff, all united by a common goal of helping others.” Sam continued.
Being in a front-line position and dealing with vulnerable and stressed individuals certainly takes skill and heart in equal measure.
As a volunteer, I see how Foodbank as a lifeline to countless families doing it tough. The service it provides goes far beyond food – it offers dignity, hope and stability during difficult times. Every shift I do I witness the incredible impact the organisation makes, not just filling pantries but building stronger communities. I’m proud to contribute to that.”
Something simple such as greeting a customer by their first name or simply asking ‘how are you today’ has the power to improve someone’s day. A volunteer’s smile may be the only smile that person gets that day. We (the volunteers) are all conscious of that and want to create a positive experience where we can.
The gratitude expressed by our customers is often the most impactful part of my day. I am happy I can make even a small positive difference to someone’s life. I take pride in knowing that I can help a customer feel comfortable and not judged when they come here. In giving your time, you receive something invaluable in return – a renewed perspective and the fulfillment that comes from helping others in a meaningful and often life-changing way. It makes me value what I have.” Sam said.
Volunteers bring immeasurable benefits to our organisation, allowing us to expand services, reach more people and achieve our mission to Feed Educate and Advocate, without the financial burden of hiring additional staff. Each volunteer brings a new and fresh perspective, which both cultivates and encourages innovation and community engagement.
Ultimately, the true value of volunteers lies not only in the work that they do but in the spirit of generosity and shared purpose they bring – turning collective goodwill into meaningful action and lasting change.
A heartfelt thank you all of our volunteers past and present. We thank you for weaving kindness hope and heart into everything you do in our community.