Thoughtful support from Qantas staff

A huge thank you to all the Qantas staff who collected and donated hundreds of packs of toiletry items – enough to fill two Missionbeat vans – for distribution through our homelessness services.

The toiletry packs, along with financial donations collected from Qantas offices around the country, were presented to Mission Australia’s Missionbeat at a homeless week event held at Qantas’ Mascot headquarters on Friday.

The lunchtime event featured a performance by the Sydney Street Choir and warm meals on sale to staff, with all money going to Mission Australia’s homeless services.

Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, welcomed the generous contributions by Qantas’ staff and the organisation’s commitment to tackling homelessness.

“Homelessness remains one of Australia’s biggest social problems – around 105,000 people are homeless on any one night in this country,” said Mr Hall.

“We each have a role to play in tackling the problem – by making a donation to the homeless charity of your choice, by volunteering, or participating in a fundraising event.

“It’s terrific to see Qantas and its staff take that message to heart and really get behind an initiative that will make a difference in the lives of many homeless people around the country.

“It’s often overlooked, but essential toiletry items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, sanitary napkins, hair brushes, etc, play a crucial role in helping homeless people – particularly those sleeping rough – maintain their hygiene and self-confidence.

“Homelessness is an extremely isolating experience made even worse if you’re unable to clean your teeth or run a comb through your hair.”

Georgina Gaussen, CEO of Qantas Foundation said, “This Mission Australia appeal is a great initiative to get involved with and our people are very keen to throw their support behind the campaign.

“The simple act of donating toiletry items is a small effort that has big benefits for those who don’t necessarily have those day-to-day items that many of us take for granted. It is a stark reminder that we can all do our little bit to help Mission Australia make life for our homeless more bearable.”

Thanks again, Qantas, for your wonderful support!

Charles Chambers Court residents put on their blue suede shoes

Residents of Mission Australia’s Charles Chambers Court in Sydney’s inner city celebrated the life and music of Elvis Presley this week, attending a themed lunch in honour of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.

Jill Bicknell, Mission Australia’s Aged Care Operations Manager said all the residents attended the lunch and had a fantastic time.

“Staff, residents and our volunteers really enjoyed the day, but none more so than one of our residents who performed his Elvis impression for over an hour.

“The same resident normally frequents the local hotel by 10am each morning, however on Tuesday he stayed for the event and entertained everyone. He had the time of his life,” said Jill.

A big thank you to the seven volunteers from PwC who kindly provided lunch on the day and also gave away seven lucky door prizes.

Charles Chambers Court, Mission Australia’s award-winning service for Sydney’s aged homeless, provides high-quality accommodation and personal care, enabling an independent lifestyle.

Mission Australia is currently building a new facility in nearby Redfern, which aims to address the increasing need for permanent accommodation for the city’s aged homeless.

Christmas lunch brings cheer to Brisbane’s homeless

One of Brisbane’s leading homeless services, Roma House, warmed up winter this week by hosting a special Christmas in July community lunch.

Around 80 guests, including residents, staff, other local community service workers, the State Member for Brisbane Central, Grace Grace MP, and Brisbane City Councillor for Central, David Hinchliffe, gathered together on Tuesday to enjoy festive food and great company.

A traditional Christmas lunch - complete with turkey, ham, roast vegetables with gravy and topped off by pudding and custard and trifle - was served by Mission Australia staff and volunteers from Brisbane’s corporate and donor community.

Even Santa made an off-season appearance, handing out beautiful handmade scarves, beanies, quilts and blankets, kindly donated by Knitting for Brisbane’s Needy, to residents. Some even took the opportunity to have a photo snapped with the big man.

Guests were entertained by musical performances by staff and residents. They also heard a residents’ presentation about Roma House’s therapeutic kitchen program, The House of Plenty, which an intentional therapeutic that connects and empowers residents through cooking and sharing meals.

Christmas in July lunch guests also enjoyed a video about the innovative Adventure Based Therapy program that also operates out of the Spring Hill site – you can learn more about it and link to the video from this page.

“This is the third consecutive year we’ve held a Christmas in July lunch,” said Operations Manager Avryl Gration. “It provides the residents with something to look forward to, and nice memories to call on during the cold winter months – and it provides our residents with a real feeling of home and belonging.”

Channel 10 News in Brisbane also made it along to Christmas in July at Roma House. You can watch their coverage of this inspirational event here.

Kids now get into the zoo for free

Great news for Victorian kids and families! The Victorian Coalition Government has just announced that it’s giving children free entry to three outstanding zoos – Healesville Sanctuary, Werribee Zoo and Melbourne Zoo.

The $10.7 million initiative, expected to give free entry to 266,000 children, was welcomed by Paul Bird, Mission Australia’s State Director, who said it was important that the wonderful learning and discovery experiences at zoos were accessible to all Victorians.

“Mission Australia applauds the government for this initiative as it will enable more families to enjoy the many experience and wonders offered by Zoos Victoria,” Mr Bird said.

Mission Australia’s 2010 National Youth Survey found the number of Victorians taking part in arts and cultural activities had dropped significantly since 2008, highlighting the need to encourage activities that engage children and their families to build their relationships and life skills.
The initiative will grant children under 16 years of age free entry on Victorian public holidays and school holidays plus weekends from 1 July – which in time for the winter school break.

The Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Chris Ryan, said the subsidy would reduce the cost from $12.60 to zero and a family ticket would be reduced from $58 to $50.80.

Every year since 2008, Mission Australia Family Day at the Zoo, in partnership with Zoos Victoria and MetLink and V/Line, has given free entry and free public transport to Victorian children from across the state - including migrants and refugees.

Last December, more than 100 volunteers from Mission Australia, Vline and Metlink helped many first-time public transport users find their way to and from the event, as well as navigate their way around the zoo.

Further information:

• Melbourne Zoo opens doors to 3,000 children and families from across Victoria
• Adelaide kids enjoy a day at the zoo

Big Heart Bellambi bounces back!

Good news for op shoppers in the Illawarra. Mission Australia’s Big Heart store at 16 Bellambi Lane, Bellambi, is back in action!

Today’s re-opening signals a major turning point for the store since it was damaged in a devastating fire in March of this year.

As well as being the site of Mission Australia’s Soft Landing mattress recycling social enterprise, the Bellambi Big Heart retail store acts as a sorting and distribution depot for the six other Big Heart stores in the region as well as a bulk sales outlet.

As a result of the fire, much of the Big Heart stock as well as the mattresses were either destroyed by fire, smoke or water damage caused by sprinklers triggered during the blaze.

This necessitated a major drive for donations of goods suitable for sale at the Big Heart shops.

“We are so happy to finally re-open our doors,” Bill Dibley, NSW Operations Manager for Social Enterprise, said.

“The local community have been extremely supportive and our volunteer team have been unbelievable in cleaning up after the fire.”

“I thank them all for their comment and dedication.”

Clothing sold from Bellambi outlet is still only $7 a kilo, shoes $2 a pair and books can be purchased 5 for $2.

As ever, the Mission Australia is calling out for volunteers at all of its Big Heart sites in the Illawarra region – Warilla, Dapto, Wollongong or Thirroul – or even the Nowra and Campbelltown outlets. According to Mr Dibley, there are several volunteering opportunities available at some of the retail outlets including retail assistants, drivers, offsiders and sorters.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities, please call 1800 110 578 or email volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au.

Further reading

• ‘Big Heart rises from the ashes’
• ‘Big Heart cleans up after weekend fire’
• Soft Landing - a Mission Australia social business working towards sustainability
• Find the location of the Belambi store at the Google map below.
  

View Larger Map

New website for not-for-profits

Did you know that the value of volunteering in the not-for-profit sector is estimated at $14.6 billion per year?

This is just one of the fast facts on the new Office for the Not-for-Profit Sector website, which was launched last week.

The Australian Government website also includes a Sector Guide to the Budget, with measures of interest to not-for-profit organisations.

It features downloadable rich-text format (RTF) and PDF documents outlining broad reform measures such as the establishment of an independent regulator for charities and tailored support for job seekers, as well as a list of programs that not-for-profits can access.

The site also features information on the new Australian Charities and Not-For-Profit Commission (ACNC), which aims to improve the accountability and transparency of the sector while removing reporting overlap for general reporting requirements at the Commonwealth level.

The Office for the Not-for-Profit Sector was established in October 2010 to drive and coordinate the not-for-profit sector policy reform agenda and the National Compact - working together.

Visit www.notforprofit.gov.au for more information.

Learning life lessons through Catalyst Clemente

When asked why she volunteers, Catalyst Clemente Learning Partner Sarah Carter has a simple answer – she loves helping people to help themselves.

A Reservoir Engineer with Woodside Energy, which is a strong corporate supporter of our services in Western Australia, Sarah has been involved with the Catalyst Clemente program since it was introduced to Mission Australia’s Wattle House two years ago.

Delivered in Perth in partnership with Edith Cowan University, this accessible program enables people who have experienced significant challenges in life, including homelessness, to participate in undergraduate level humanities education. It caters for the particular needs of students by combining education with social support.

Learning Partners like Sarah are recruited from corporate partners and the wider community, and play a vital role in the program. As a Learning Partner, Sarah supports and assists students at weekly study evenings during the semester and with essay writing, research and course material interpretation.

Team Leader Community Development and Catalyst Clemente Coordinator, Mario Gomes, said he has been impressed by Sarah’s unfailing commitment to the program over the past two years, despite the demands of her family and working life.

“She has been with us from the start and has renewed her commitment unit after unit,” he said. “On one occasion, she was very busy at work, but came all the way out to Maddington for the Catalyst learning evening, then went back to her office to complete her work! Sarah had her first baby last year, so we really appreciate the time she gives is valuable.

But for Sarah, the satisfaction she receives from volunteering at Wattle House make it worth the effort: “It is not difficult juggling volunteering with my paid work but I have found it more difficult to fit in spending time with my son, Henry,” she said. “Ultimately, I really enjoy my volunteering time and so try to fit this in around our family routine - my husband helps by picking up the slack at home!

“The most rewarding thing about volunteering is the opportunity to be involved in the greater community doing something that helps others and that is not just about me,” Sarah said.

“Also seeing students graduate from their four subjects as part of the program and move on to further university study or different challenges in their lives with so much more confidence and motivation. The students become great examples for their family and children and end up not just changing their lives but those around them as well.

Mario said its this positive attitude that makes Catalyst volunteers like Sarah an integral part of the program: “Our six Learning Partner volunteers are extraordinary. So often they tell me that they get more out of volunteering that the Catalyst Clemente students do,” he said. “I think that’s because it’s very tangible work. The volunteers help the students to get results and feel so proud to be a part of their success – it’s very interactive.”

For Sarah, student graduation ceremonies are the highpoints of her volunteering year. Seeing the sense of achievement on the faces of the students, she said, make her efforts worthwhile.

“There is so much to gain from getting involved in your community through volunteering activities and I’d recommend it to anyone,” she said. “It is also really important to use volunteering as a way to help people help themselves, which is what the Catalyst Clemente program is all about.”

Find out about current volunteering opportunities at Mission Australia’s Wattle House at our WA Volunteering Opportunities page.

Further reading:

• Woodside volunteers freshen up YASS for Christmas
• Promoting social inclusion: Emerging evidence from the Catalyst-Clemente program
• World opens up for WA Catalyst graduates
  

Five years of unfailing support

In any given week about 1,000 people volunteer their time to help Mission Australia. They serve food, teach, sell clothes in our Big Heart op shops and some, like Margaret Foley, provide valuable administrative support.

Margaret is one of our most reliable volunteers. She has been coming into Mission Australia’s National Office in Sydney every week for the past five years, quietly and diligently performing her volunteer duties.

Margaret supports our Bequest Team, which raises funds that enable Mission Australia to support people in need across the nation.

When Margaret retired from a career as a food technologist she was determined to use her time to support a good cause.

“I wanted to get involved in something that would bring me fulfilment,” Margaret said. “At the time a relative worked at Mission Australia, so I asked if there was some way I could be of use.”

In her role Margaret provides administrative support to our Bequest Team, writing envelopes and helping to organise events such as our annual information day for solicitors.

“I do get the sense of achievement from completing tasks and of being useful,” she said. “The team does an important job, but I really think that the whole organisation is very important and that’s what keeps me coming back.

“I would definitely encourage people to volunteer – it’s very worthwhile.”

Mission Australia’s Estate and Relationships Coordinator, Pat Brennan, has worked alongside Margaret for many years and is still impressed by the volunteer’s professionalism.

“Margaret is extremely reliable and very focused on what she’s doing,” she said. “She’s brilliant at detailed work and also helps us out at functions. She’s a fantastic addition to our team and a shining example for volunteering.”

If you would like to help transform lives (including your own), consider volunteering with Mission Australia. You can find out more on our Volunteer page.

Further reading:

• ‘Australian charities join forces to change attitudes to bequest giving’
  
• ‘Why leave a gift in your Will to Mission Australia?’
• Archive of all Mission Australia Volunteering news

Celebrating National Volunteer Week

This National Volunteer Week Mission Australia is celebrating the vital contribution made by our wonderful volunteers.

According to Volunteering Australia, each year more than five million people across the nation donate their time and talents to community organisations like Mission Australia. Aussie volunteers contribute more than 700 million hours of community service to so many areas of society, including community health care, heritage and arts, environment conservation, emergency services, education, sports and social justice.

Here in any given week at Mission Australia around 1,000 people from the wider community, corporate world and Christian groups volunteer an average of three hours of their time to help us transform lives.

Our volunteers vary in ages, backgrounds and beliefs, but the one thing they have in common is the desire to make a difference in their communities by performing a huge variety of roles. They provide gardening skills, undertake administrative tasks, teach yoga, tutor new arrivals, mentor parents, support people with their studies and sell items in our Big Heart op shops – and that’s just to name a few roles.

Their dedication and enthusiasm displayed by these selfless individuals never fails to inspire.

The theme for National Volunteer Week 2011 is ‘Inspiring The Volunteer In You’, and the aim is to promote the benefits of donating your time and talents to a good cause.

Volunteering Australia’s National Survey of Volunteering Issues 2010 showed that volunteering provided the majority of people surveyed with an increased sense of belonging to their community as well as opportunities to use their skills, to make a difference to the organisation’s work and to learn and develop.

The study also revealed that volunteering offered pathways to paid employment for a significant proportion of people – in fact, one third of survey respondents.

It also seems that volunteering can benefit your health. According to Mentally Healthy WA studies have found that 61 per cent of people who volunteer at least five times a year say it helps them feel less stressed.

But don’t take only my word for it – hear what our volunteers have to say. Throughout the week we’ll be featuring stories about people whose lives have been enhanced by their volunteer work. After all, they say it’s better to give than receive!

If you’d like to help transform lives (including your own), consider volunteering with Mission Australia – you can find out more on our Volunteer page.

A big heartfelt thanks to all of our amazing volunteers and wishing you all a Happy National Volunteering Week!

Regards,

Sharnelle Magee
National Volunteer Manager

Media coverage - Blacktown Sun: A chance to assist migrants

People who want to help new migrants settle in Australia should do what Sarah Cullen, 27, of Blacktown, did.

Ms Cullen is a Mission Australia Home Tutor Scheme volunteer who has been tutoring Manizha Zaki from Afghanistan in English for four years.

"I have learnt a lot from Manizha and gained a wonderful friend," she said. "Watching her English skills develop has been inspirational.

"When I first met her, she could barely say 'hello' and 'goodbye,' let alone hold a conversation. She can now speak English on the phone, make appointments, use public transport and even apply for jobs.

"I work full-time with Josephite Community Aid in Seven Hills, but the commitment to the Home Tutor Scheme is only one to two hours a week and the time I spend with Manizha is well worth it."

Ms Cullen has benefited by picking up practical knowledge, including recipes for Afghani dishes.

Manizha Zaki praised Ms Cullen's tutoring and said they had become good friends.

Mission Australia's Home Tutor Scheme team leader Mina Zolfaghari said the service played a crucial role in helping new Australians settle here successfully and contribute to their communities.

"Not knowing our national language can be a huge barrier in settling into Australian life," she said.

"Imagine not being able to make a doctor's appointment for a sick child or buy a train ticket."

To become a volunteer or for more information, call 9635 1543.

Story and image courtesy of The Blacktown Sun

Read a recent media release from MA to find out more about Mission Australia's Home Tutor Scheme.

Still caring after 75 years

Colin Shipway has enjoyed a long connection with Mission Australia, starting out as a volunteer with the Sydney City Mission – one of our founding organisations – back in 1936.

Seventy-five years later, Colin is still passionate about helping people to transform their lives. At a recent event held at the Country Women’s Association in Bowral, NSW, to thank our long-term supporters, Colin reminded guests that while the society has changed, compassion was still very much alive in modern Australia.

Here is an extract of what he shared with his fellow supporters and local Mission Australia staff from Big Heart Enterprises and Triple Care Farm – the Sir David Martin Foundation-supported residential program for young people experiencing homelessness, substance abuse and mental health issues:

“Let’s start at the beginning. In 1860 a young British migrant, Benjamin Short, left England for Australia. In his homeland he had taken part in gospel meetings held by the London City Mission… In 1862 he established the Sydney City Mission, which had the motto of ‘Need, not creed’.

“In 1936, I became a volunteer worker at the Paddington branch of Sydney City Mission… which is where I met my wife. After bible college training, I was invited to join the staff as a City Missionary. I served in Chippendale, Glebe, Waterloo, Newtown and Surry Hills and later in the office.

“In 1949 I was commissioned to set up a youth department and children’s and youth camping program. Sydney City Mission had property near Bowral adjoining the Mount Gibraltar Children’s Home, complete with huts built during the war by the Royal Australian Air Force.

“My wife Rosemary and I as well as staff and volunteers ran camps in Mount Gibraltar for 16 years – and I estimated that 3,000 young people from Sydney benefited from these programs. They enjoyed pictures and campfires, sang, played sport, caught yabbies, swam and went on bus trips. On one occasion when I was climbing with a group of boys, one little fellow grabbed my hand, looked up to me and said: “Gee, I wish you were my dad - and I melted on the spot...

“In the 1960s I was brought into City Mission office to set up a family counselling service and attend to the admission of children into our homes at Cronulla, Woodford and here at Bowral.

At first these homes were for malnourished children or those who needed a holiday in the country, but then more children were coming from broken homes… As society changed, long-time care of children in homes was seen to be inappropriate, so the homes closed and we worked to support child to stay with their own families.

“I was involved with Sydney City Mission for 39 years, working as a City Missionary for 32 - I’m now in my 90th year… I’m happy to say that today all around Australia lives are continuing to be transformed by the ever-increasing work of Mission Australia.”

Thank you, Colin, for your inspiring example and tireless support of children and families in need.

Mission Australia is always looking for volunteers. Find out how you can use your time and talents to help transform lives - missionaustralia.com.au/volunteer-at-mission-australia

Media Release: Tasmanians invited to the ultimate taste test

Tasmanians are invited to put their tastebuds to the ultimate test, all in the name of raising much needed funds for Mission Australia’s Chigwell House.

Mission Australia is hosting a secret five-course degustation including matched wines, where guests will be asked to guess the key ingredients in each dish as well as the type and origin of each wine.

Mission Australia’s State Director Noel Mundy said the beneficiary of the evening was Chigwell House, which provides a range of community and accommodation services, including low-cost housing for those considered at risk of homelessness.

“Mission Australia’s Centre, Chigwell House provides a range of programs that help clients address personal issues and enable them to secure and maintain stable housing,” Mr Mundy said.

“Programs offered at the Centre include Parents Staying Connected, Integrated Family Support Service, Youth Beat, Youth Connections and a Community Garden.

“Other services offered include a free Child Health Nurse, a volunteer solicitor, Centrelink appointments and cooking lessons for all community members.”

Mr Mundy said the evening’s secret five-course menu was created by renowned Tasmanian chef Paul Foreman,

“Paul will be treating guests to a secret five-course dinner using local and seasonal produce to enliven diners’ senses,” he said.

The Ultimate Taste Test will be held on Wednesday, 25 May at Cooleys Hotel. Tickets are $120 which includes five courses with paired wines.

For more information about the Ultimate Taste Test evening please contact Erica Loring on (03) 6234 3240 or email loringe@missionaustralia.com.au.

Mission Australia acknowledges the generous contribution of Cooleys, Brown Brothers, Bream Creek Vineyard, Treasury Estate and Big Bargain Bottle Shop.

For further information or to organise an interview please contact Lucinda Bray, Font Public Relations, 0438 280 486

Big Heart rises from the ashes

A new IMB-funded initiative for Mission Australia’s Big Heart Enterprises will help the Bellambi operation to bounce back after last month’s warehouse fire.

The Bags for Rags project, which is likely to create new employment opportunities as well as work experience and training for Illawarra residents, has been set up thanks to a $24,000 fast-tracked community grant from the building society.

This project joins Mission Australia’s other local environmental enterprise - Soft Landing - which strips mattresses of recyclable parts such as metal, foam and timber and in the process diverts some 140 tonnes of waste from landfill.

It will also work in conjunction with our Big Heart retail enterprise, which diverts more than 100,000 tonnes of clothing from landfill through seven Big Heart opportunity shops in the Illawarra and south-western Sydney.

Clothes, mattresses and televisions stored in the 4,000 square metre warehouse that is home to our Big Heart and Soft Landing businesses were destroyed when a stack of mattress frames caught alight on 6 March.

Mission Australia NSW Operations Manager Social Enterprises Bill Dibley told today’s Illawarra Mercury that the IMB grant could not have come at a better time.

"It was a huge bonus for us that they were prepared to move the funding forward." he said.

Bags to Rags is the brainchild of Project Manager Justine Fitzgibbon, who saw an opportunity to provide waste material to service stations, mechanics, manufacturing and hardware businesses.

"I would like to see Bags to Rags up and running by the start of the new financial year," she told The Illawarra Mercury. "Initially we will be utilising volunteers and providing work experience through schools, job services and from anyone wanting to volunteer their time.”

Ms Fitzgibbon added that as the program grows it will hopefully employ people through a traineeship scheme.

In recent weeks Big Heart Enterprises volunteers have been working from a site in Fairymeadow, but it is hoped that all staff and volunteers will be able to return to Bellambi next month.

Volunteer or find out more:

• Big Heart is always looking for volunteer retail and warehouse workers as well as truck drivers. If you would like to donate your time to support Mission Australia in the Illawarra, including as a Bags to Rags volunteer, please call 1800 110 578 or visit volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au.
• Watch this short video to find out more about Mission Australia’s Soft Landing social enterprise

New van freshens up Café One service

Mission Australia’s Café One on Wickham has a new refrigerated van to help it support disadvantaged people in Brisbane thanks to the generosity of The Talbot Family Foundation.

The café in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley provides low-cost meals and coffee as well as a range of support services to the city’s homeless and other people in need of a hand up. Importantly, Café One is a place to connect.

The Talbot Family Foundation kindly funded the new VW Caddy van, which will make it easier for the café to access fresh produce and other donated supplies in order to provide nutritious low-cost meals to people in need.

Amanda Talbot, wife of the late Ken Talbot, Chairman Don Nissen and the Foundation’s CEO, Lynne Gardner, last month officially handed the vehicle over to Penny Gillespie, State Director Mission Australia (pictured), at the café.

“They were really thrilled and all commented on the great vibe at the café and could really see its importance in the community,” said Helen O'Connor, Mission Australia’s Queensland Relationship Manager.

A Café One customer was moved to make a spontaneous speech, thanking Mission Australia and The Talbot Family Foundation for their support.

“She was incredibly thankful to the café and the staff - both past and present - for helping her along her journey because she now has a home and had worked incredibly hard to get there,” said Helen.

David* is a more recent Café One regular who appreciates the good food and support he has received there in recent weeks. Through his visits to Café One David has not only had access to nutritious food, but has found a safe place to stay after living on the streets.

When David came in asking for a meal at Café One’, the service’s Acting Team Leader Mitchell Peterson set up an account to ensure he could regularly access healthy food at the eatery. He also organised accommodation for David at Mission Australia’s Roma House.

“I was raised in a foster home since I was 18 months old until about 16,” David said. “Since then, I’ve come to places like Café One for advice, guidance and counselling. I’m 27 this year and I’d like to say Café One is a huge, great benefit and support network to the community and all people of society.

“The support I receive here is really hopeful,” he added. “At times during the week I can’t eat, so I come here for a feed that’s better than home-cooked meals and better than starving.

“My mum has been coming here for a few years and Café One supports her with food and counselling, which we all need as humans.”

Café One on Wickham relies on donations, local community support and volunteers to operate. As part of The Talbot Family Foundation’s long-term commitment to Mission Australia, Café One will receive a generous annual donation for five years.

If you would like to donate to Café One call 1800 88 88 68 or click on the ‘Donate’ button on the top left of our website. Local philanthropists who wish to support Café One can contact Helen O’Connor, Mission Australia Relationship Manager, on (07) 3394 8149.

Volunteering opportunities at Café One also regularly appear on the Volunteering section of our website.

*Name has been changed to protect the person’s identity

Media Release: Make a difference to someone's life - become a volunteer English tutor

Mission Australia's Home Tutor Service (HTS) in Parramatta is crying out for volunteers to teach newly arrived refugees and migrants English language skills to help them settle more successfully in their new homeland.

Mission Australia's HTS is a volunteer-driven tutoring scheme which matches members of the community with migrants and refugees many of whom are house-bound because they're caring for infant children, family responsibilities or illness.

Volunteer tutors are provided with free training and support by Mission Australia. Lessons are one-on-one and held in the students' homes.

Mission Australia's HTS Team Leader, Mina Zolfaghari, said the service played a crucial role in helping new Australians settle successfully and contribute to their local communities.

"Not knowing our national language can be a huge barrier in settling into Australian life - imagine not being able to do simple things like make a doctors appointment for a sick child or buy a train ticket?

"You don't need to be bi-lingual - although if you are, particularly in Arabic, your skills will be put to good use. Just patience, a willingness to lend a hand and the ability to spare an hour per week is all that's required."

Sarah Cullen has been tutoring Manizha Zaki from Afghanistan for four years now.

"I have learned so much from Manizha and more than anything else, I have gained a wonderful friend," said Sarah.

"Watching her English skills develop has been inspirational. When I first met her, she could barely say 'hello' and 'goodbye,' let alone hold a conversation."

"Now, she can function in everyday life as well as any native Australian, speaking on the phone making appointments, using public transport, even applying for jobs. I feel so privileged to have been a part of that process."

"I work full-time but the commitment to HTS is only one to two hours per week and the time I spend with Manizha is well worth it."

Sarah has also gained from the cross-cultural exchange picking up some very practical knowledge including recipes for Afghani dishes like rice pudding and boulani.

The Home Tutor Scheme is always looking for volunteers in Blacktown, as well as the Parramatta, Merrylands, Auburn, Fairfield and Liverpool areas.

To become a volunteer, or for more information, please call 9635 1543.

Sarah and Manizha are available for interview and photo opportunity. For all enquiries please call Leanne Budd on 0457 505 342

Everybody belongs in our Home Tutor Scheme

Today being Harmony Day - a celebration of cultural diversity with a theme of ‘Everybody Belongs’ - we’d like to celebrate one of the many friendships formed through Mission Australia’s Home Tutor Scheme and Enhancement Program in Sydney’s south-western and western suburbs.

The Home Tutor Scheme is part of the Adult Migrant English Program, which is funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, recruits and trains volunteers to teach English to newly arrived migrants and refugee who are unable to attend formal classes.

One of our most dedicated and long-serving tutors is Sarah Cullen.  At the moment she is working with two students, including Manizha, who came to Sydney from Afghanistan.

Sarah and Manizha have been meeting for lessons for the past four years, and have built up a firm friendship.

“I have learnt a lot of English and have a good teacher,” she said. “I am very happy because we have become good friends.”

Sarah considers it an “absolute privilege” to work with Manizha.

“I have the utmost respect for Manizha considering what she has been through in fleeing Afghanistan,” Sarah said. “But beyond that, I admire her dedication to learning English and the pace at which she has picked it up.

“Manizha is always willing to ‘have a go’ and completes her homework diligently every week,” she added.

“We have become good friends and I look forward to sharing in her future discoveries and success.”

Mission Australia is always seeking committed volunteers to teach English to new arrivals in Parramatta, Cabramatta, Auburn, Blacktown, Fairfield, Liverpool and Merrylands. Volunteers are required to attend a free 18-hour training course and are then matched with a client by gender and locality. They then visit the client’s home once a week and tutor them for up to 90 minutes.

On completion of 20 hours’ tutoring, our volunteers receive a certificate of attendance. If you would like to register to volunteer please send a brief cover letter with a resume to volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au

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Resources from harmony.gov.au:

• About Harmony Day:  Information on what Harmony Day is all about.
• How to Celebrate Harmony Day:  There are many ways you can celebrate Harmony Day. It depends on how you want to bring people together in your school, community or organisation.
• Register Your Event:  Register your event and download do-it-yourself Harmony Day products, graphics or a certificate of appreciation.
• What's On:  If you want to know what events have been registered in your area so far, or simply want to see what others are planning to do for Harmony Day.
• Harmony Day 2011 Supporters:  Harmony Day's success continues and grows each year with the continued support of organisations around the country.

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Enterprising young men lend a hand after Yasi

Here’s a very welcome good news story from Queensland. Seven young Indigenous Employment Program participants from Cairns recently volunteered their time to help elderly locals clean up after Cyclone Yasi, which swept through late last month.

The young men, who are gaining landscaping and construction skills through Djarragun Enterprises, contacted the local RSL offering to clear vegetation and debris from the yards of elderly people in the community.

They subsequently helped residents in Gordonvale and Mission Beach, clearing their properties and bringing their yards back to a condition that would be easier for them to maintain in the future.

In Gordonvale, they helped clear a mini banana plantation from the backyard of a 92-year-old war veteran. The Djarragun Enterprises crew took two days of hard work to clear damaged plants and prepare the area for re-growth. In the process, the team bonded with the home owner and offered to help her on an ongoing basis.

The young men also travelled down to Mission Beach and spent the day offering what assistance they could, free of charge. The day started early for the crew, who left at 6am for the trip and arrived home after 7pm.

“As the emphasis of the program is to equip our participants to operate in mainstream society, it was a valuable opportunity for them to experience the benefits of giving freely of their time and energy to assist others less fortunate,” said Programs Manager Steve Burrowes.

Djarragun Enterprises is an Indigenous Employment Program social enterprise that operates out of Cairns. Funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), this 15-month program provides an industry-based employment pathway for Indigenous graduates from Djarragun College.

Three Mission Australia live-in support staff work closely with participants at their accommodation, helping them to develop social skills and ensure they are self-sufficient and assisted to make the transition into permanent employment.

Mission Australia also provides post-placement and employment support to young people who complete training with Djarragun Enterprises.

Australians more likely to volunteer in 2011, says survey

A recent survey by Vodafone has revealed that the number of people planning to volunteer with a charity in the next 12 months had more than doubled from 30 per cent in 2010 to 68 per cent this year.

"There's a generosity gene and this nation has it in spades," social researcher Bernard Salt said.

Those who said they would take part in a community fundraiser this year had risen from 31 per cent to 67 per cent.

Respondents' willingness to help a stranger in need was also up, from 59 per cent to 66 per cent.

Mr Salt said the results reflected "a profound shift in social values" and we've already seen evidence in the massive response to the Queensland flood and cyclone disasters.

More than $212 million has been donated to the Premier's Disaster Relief Fund and more than 80,000 people have offered their time and effort through a hotline set up by Volunteering Queensland.

Mission Australia supported Volunteering Queensland’s post-flood efforts by establishing a call centre in our Sydney Head Office to take calls on the Queensland body’s behalf.

Australia and New Zealand jointly topped the first World Giving Index, compiled last September by the international Charities Aid Foundation. It ranked 153 countries according to donations, volunteering and willingness to help strangers.

"All of a sudden, generosity and kindness are in," Mr Salt said in yesterday’s Sunday Mail. "The world has changed since the GFC.

"Prior to this event and perhaps even prior to recent natural disasters in Australia there was perhaps a tacit approval, almost an admiration of the quality of greed. But that view has now been turned on its head.
"There's a new morality and civic-mindedness. There's almost a spiritual element to it."

According to The Sunday Mail, survey found nearly two-thirds of people (62 per cent) disapproved more of greed than five years ago.

The biggest shift in opinion was among Generation Y - those aged between 18 and 30. But Mr Salt said research showed the volunteering spirit spread across all age groups.

People aged 35 to 44 were most likely to help strangers while Australians aged between 44 to 55 were most likely to help family members in need. Those over 55 did the most by volunteering their time.

About 47 per cent of Australians regularly donate to charity and most volunteers report that donating their time had a good effect their relationships.

Nearly half the respondents in the survey (43 per cent) said they were most likely to be motivated to donate to an appeal after natural disasters.

Click here to find out about Volunteering opportunities with Mission Australia

If you have any questions about volunteering with Mission Australia, call the National Volunteering Hotline on 1800 110 578 or email volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au

Volunteers source discounts online for flood victims

A group of volunteers has set up a website where retailers and service providers can genuinely discount their goods for Australian flood victims.

Co-ordinated by Rebecca Wilson, Mikael Wedemeyer and Suzanne Pelizzari, www.flooddiscounts.com.au is a non-commercial site that relies heavily of a team of volunteers from throughout the community.

Mr Wedemeyer said that the site has been designed to help people affected by floods to save money and time.

He added that Flood Discounts had attracted many of Queensland and Australia’s most popular retailers of homewares, building materials, flooring, electrical appliances and everyday needs, some offering in excess of 50 percent off cost prices for legitimate flood victims.

All listings are free and there are no paid contributions or advertising on the site. Find out more at www.flooddiscounts.com.au

Australian of the Year asks nation to ‘reach out and connect’

Australian of the Year Simon McKeon has urged people to get involved in the non-profit sector.

''I just want to encourage each and every Australian to reach out and connect,'' he told The Age after receiving the honour.

As executive chairman of the Melbourne operations of investment bank Macquarie Bank, he has led his colleagues in community activities.

Mr McKeon, who was appointed chairman of CSIRO last year and was on the board of World Vision Australia, asked Australians to look around and find where they can match their interests and skills to the needs of others.

''It might involve a little bit of sacrifice and discipline,'' he said. ''But, and this is just so crucial to understand, that participation has given me back so, so much more than I have given it.

''Just reach out and connect. I am not in any way seeking to have people do anything out of guilt. It is simply not about that. You can pick things that work for you.

''Talk to people you know and trust who are already involved… I am confident there is a cause for everyone,” he added. ''Think of how you can contribute - we all have different skills.''

To read the full story in The Age and view television coverage please visit this link

To find out about how you can volunteer your time and talents to help Mission Australia visit
missionaustralia.com.au/volunteer-at-mission-australia