FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions:
What commitment is required to become a Community Friend Volunteer?
You will need to:
- Be able to commit to the role for 12 months
- Be able to commit 2-3 hours a fortnight for a one-to-one friendship match, or between 2-4 hours monthly to support a small social group
- Undergo a Police Check
- Meet with the Community Friend Program staff at our Brunswick Office for an initial interview
- Maintain contact with the Facilitator
What skills does a Community Friend Volunteer require?
- commitment and reliability
- good social skills - be a good role model
- the ability to focus on others’ needs
- an understanding of the importance of friendship and social connection
Will I receive support?
Yes. Our Community Friend Program staff support and appreciate their volunteers. Various training programs are offered twice yearly and newsletters are provided. Support is only a telephone call away, or you could arrange to meet for a catch-up.
What type of disabilities do participants of the Community Friend Program have?
Community Friend Program participants may have a mild disability of any kind: physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, developmental or people with acquired brain injuries.
Why is the role of Community Friend Volunteers so important?
Our volunteers help provide social opportunities and support to people living with a disability whom otherwise may be socially isolated. Participants may lack confidence to go out on their own, be unsure of public transport or how to find friends. As a result they may become isolated and find they have little to look forward to. Participants may also be unsure of how to make contact with people of similar interests.
What is the age range of Community Friend Program participants?
The Community Friend Program participants are aged from between 18 to 64. The majority of our participants are aged between their late 20’s and 50’s.
