Lifeline South Coast is calling for more community volunteers to support local shops and warehouse operations as demand for its services intensifies. Photo: Lifeline South Coast.
From students to retirees and full-time workers, people from all walks of life have found the ideal volunteering arrangement at Lifeline South Coast. But with escalating need, the organisation has put a fresh call out for more.
Community members across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven can take up new opportunities now available in Lifeline shops in Corrimal, Dapto and Nowra, as well as logistics roles at the book sorting warehouse in Wollongong.
“We’re seeing pressure from the cost of living and housing crisis and everything people are facing at the moment is translating to demand on our crisis support services and in our shops,” Lifeline South Coast marketing, events and partnership manager Courtney Moore said.
“More people are seeking quality secondhand goods than ever and we’re struggling to keep up with demand in our four retail outlets.”
Retail volunteer roles are available in Lifeline shops, including front-of-house customer service, cashier support, merchandising, restocking shelves and accepting and sorting donations.
Logistics volunteers are also needed to work as dock assistants at the Wollongong book sorting warehouse, where duties include assisting on the loading dock, moving pallets, general warehousing tasks, accepting and sorting donated books, preparing stock for distribution and operating pedestrian forklifts and trolley jacks.
No prior experience is required, with full training and support provided.
Lifeline South Coast retail area manager Alicia Ferderer said all roles were vital to keeping Lifeline shops stocked and operating smoothly, helping to fund essential suicide prevention, crisis support and community services delivered across the region.
“Every volunteer shift directly supports our ability to deliver life-saving services in the community,” she said. “Whether someone enjoys working with people in a retail environment or prefers a more active, behind-the-scenes role, there is a place for them within our volunteer teams.”
But while volunteering for Lifeline South Coast plays a major role in an organisation that makes a real difference in the local community, the benefit is a two-way street.
Volunteers not only gain practical experience, but also a chance to connect in friendly, inclusive teams.
“We’ve seen plenty of people who join because they want to give back and think Lifeline South Coast is a good avenue to do that, but people stay for more than the sense of fulfilment,” Courtney said.
“Many make friends and connections they carry through their entire lives.”
To learn more or apply, visit Lifeline South Coast.
