Meadows Community Hub, situated at Meadows Primary School, provides a range of services for local families in their community. The programs that are offered are based on the needs of the community and support families to engage with early childhood education and other community services. Programs include playgroup, English classes, community gardening and cooking sessions and computer classes. Each of the programs offered at the Hub are led by a dedicated team of volunteers from the local community who are involved in every aspect, from the planning and delivery of sessions to community engagement.
More than their direct contribution to the Meadows Community Hub programs, the volunteers provide a point of contact and connection for their local community. In their unique position as community members and volunteers, they develop strong relationships and trust with people attending the programs, providing community members with support and a trusted place to go in times of difficulty. The Hub volunteers are also invaluable advocates for the community, as they provide feedback on the issues that are most important to community members and help develop ideas and solutions that improve the health and wellbeing of those attending programs at the Hub.
Volunteering through the Hub is also an invaluable opportunity to develop skills and pathways to employment with many volunteers going on to training and education or accessing employment through connections formed at the Hub. This opportunity for connection also extends beyond employment. Volunteering also gives community members the opportunity to form friendships, pursue their passions and areas of interest, and give back to their local community.
“The benefits of volunteering can be witnessed in the positive relationships built in our Hub engagements. The respectful conversations experienced within the Hub team and wider school community create genuine support and friendships.
Meadows Hub’s volunteer pathway is valuable on so many levels. The welcoming and friendly volunteers promote connections to our diverse community and ensures we are aware of any barriers to engagement and can support an individual’s needs.
The volunteer team encourage life-long learning opportunities with-in our early childhood placement students, community garden participants, local leader initiatives and adult workshop participants.
The Hub’s volunteer team environment provides opportunities to inform our programs, share their expertise, engage in mentoring opportunities, and gain knowledge to reach their potential through all stages of life.
As Hub coordinator, my work is enhanced daily by our wonderful volunteer’s involvement in all aspects of our Hub”.
– Maureen Leahy, Program Coordinator
