Can you be the spark of change in a young person's life?
The first step to having a positive impact on the world is deciding you want to make a difference. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, and we appreciate anyone willing to come and use their experience or professional skills to support the youth of Victoria.
We know for a fact that the benefits of volunteering are enormous and the impact you make can last a lifetime. Not only will you be able to make a positive change in a young person's life, but you'll also be making a difference in your own.
Volunteers are essential to the success of Sparkways, and we offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities for passionate people throughout Greater Melbourne.
Volunteer Opportunities
"The experience of being a mentor to my young person has been so positive. I know she looks forward to our time together and I do too. We genuinely enjoy each other’s company without any expectations. We appreciate the little things together. I think she’s pretty amazing and that we are the perfect match!"
"Becoming a mentor has changed my life just as much as it has changed Harry's. His teacher actually contacted me and said she has noticed a clear shift in his behaviour and attitude at school."
"Being a mentor with Sparkways has been unbelievably rewarding! I have watched my young person grow and become more confident. I truly feel that she is someone I will keep in contact with for many years to come."
Become a Youth Mentor
Our mentoring program trains and matches volunteer mentors with children and young people who want a mentor and recognize the value of the mentor program.
Every day we see the positive impact mentoring has on the lives of young people, with many of them going on to say they have more self-esteem, resourcefulness and confidence after our program.
But mentoring doesn’t just make a difference for the young person, it can have a profound impact on your own life with our mentors reporting an increased sense of purpose, personal growth, and empathy after completing our program.
Academic Tutors
School can be tough and we need tutors to help our children and young people with their schoolwork and support their academic success.
Either through Zoom or face-to-face, tutors will help primary and secondary school students with their homework and other school-related tasks. We are looking for a range of tutors to support our young people currently attending school, across all subjects.
As a volunteer tutor, you'll be providing invaluable support and enrichment to vulnerable students who are looking for some extra help with their schooling.
"I would tell other potential mentors to do it without a doubt, but only if they are responsible and will not let down their mentee. It is a fantastic experience where I learned a lot by listening and where respect was the key."
"Have a go, don’t overthink it. Initially I was quite nervous and a bit apprehensive but Sparkways do a fantastic job matching their pairs. Prior to meeting Chris, I had about a million thoughts about how it would go etc. From the day I met Chris, it was such a great experience and I myself are much better as a person for the experience. It’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll do. I couldn’t recommend it more."
"If this is something you're thinking of doing and you feel like you can make the commitment then I could not recommend it more I guarantee you'll it one of the more enjoyable and rewarding ways to spend your time!"
Community Engagement
Building strong relationships within the community is one of Sparkways' most powerful tools in supporting Victoria's children and young people.
You can help support us by volunteering your time at one of our many events throughout the year, or by hosting your own event or donation drive! Small events are a great way to spread Sparkways' story, what we do, and how others can get involved.
Pro Bono Support
Another great way to support our programs is by donating your valuable skills and expertise.
We're always looking for passionate and dynamic professionals to assist us in a variety of special projects across the organisation from fundraising and graphic design to legal advice and administration.
If you're looking for a positive way to apply and develop your professional skills, get in contact with us today.
15 March 2021