Merri Mates Volunteer - TAFE Students Preferred (Start ASAP)

Merri Mates is a one-on-one social outreach program that supports people living with mild to moderate disabilities, 18-65 years old. It creates opportunity for people with disabilities to create social connections whilst exploring interests, encourages independence, and strengthens confidence within their local community. Sometimes we all need a mate to support us, and to help us feel like we belong. Volunteers are matched with an individual so together they can explore interests and enjoy the community. Being a part of the Merri Mates program will make a significant impact to someone’s life. Become a Merri Mate and make an impact to someone’s life today!

Merri Mates supports adults living with mild to moderate disabilities to access the community and explore their interests to enrich their lives. As a Merri Mate volunteer, you will be matched with a person who shares your interests and availability. You will support them by planning social activities with them and spending time together in the community.

To participate, you will need to be available for at least 4 hours a month to spend quality time with your Merri Mate participant. At different stages in the project, we may invite you and your fellow volunteers to meet together and share your feedback and ideas on how we can improve the program.

The Merri Mates program is offered to those in the Merri-Bek and surrounding areas. For the wellbeing of you and your Merri Mate, meetings will be held within the community, between Mondays - Fridays between 8.00am and 5.00pm. There is flexibility to meet remotely via phone or online.

Although specific experience is advantageous, it is not required to become a volunteer. We are looking for individuals with:

• A genuine interest in helping others and bringing about actions that make a difference
• A willingness to engage and learn about working with people with disabilities
• Listening and communications skills
• Patience, empathy, curiosity, and friendliness
• A willingness to interact with a range of people from diverse backgrounds
• Accountability and responsibility
• A willingness to provide ongoing feedback to improve the program.