SSI

About the Volunteer Community Support Assistant

The Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP) supports refugees from the moment they arrive at the airport. Upon arrival, SSI’s HSP team provides essential support and information to assist refugees to gain independence and build strong connections in their new communities. 

When and commitment

Minimum 4 hours per week for at least 3 months. (Weekdays)

What you will do

Volunteer Community Support Assistants build on the case management support offered to HSP clients by providing language support, guiding access to local services, support with life skills development, local community linkages and building social networks. Additional duties may include assisting staff with office administration.

• Assist clients to access key services and attend scheduled appointments
• Link clients with appropriate social and cultural groups and/or meaning activities
• Assist with community area orientation and life skills support as needed 
• Assist clients to learn how to use public transport and opal card
• Assist staff and clients through office tasks as directed by SSI staff, example: welcoming clients to the office, prepare relevant documents and conduct calls for appointments.
• Actively support SSI’s vision and values
• Work in accordance with SSI policies and procedures
• Follow all reasonable directions provided by HSP Team Leader or delegate

Essential

• Excellent social skills with a friendly and welcoming nature
• Excellent communication and intercultural skills
• Proficient in Arabic, Dari and/or other Afghan language), Farsi, Swahili, Tibetan or Ukrainian
• Available to volunteer for a minimum 4 hours a week
• Good ability to use Microsoft word, photocopier and make phone calls
• Flexibility in performing a range of tasks
• Ability to use public transport and navigate around Western Sydney
• Willingness to support elderly clients and/or clients with varied levels of abilities

Desirable

• Previous experience working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds

All volunteers have the responsibility to:

• Actively support SSI’s vision and values
• Work in accordance with SSI policies and procedures
• Follow all reasonable directions provided by HSP Team Leader or delegate

Reimbursement

Volunteers will have access to reimbursement for all pre approved expenses including reasonable travel expenses. Volunteers using their own vehicle will need to provide SSI with photocopies of their driver’s licence, comprehensive car insurance and current car registration.

Training

Volunteers will be provided with access to SSI’s flexible, extensive and innovative training program.

About the Welcome Program

Welcome Program aims to encourage inclusiveness and strengthen a sense of belonging by engaging Community Support Volunteers (residents) to engage in community activities with newcomers families and individuals in various areas within Sydney.

The role of the Community Support Assistant will be a bridge to connection by accompanying newcomers to events, activities making them feel welcome and more connected. 

When and commitment

Minimum one day per month for six months. (Primarily weekends, occasionally weekdays)

Location

Various locations around Sydney (eg Blue Mountains, Bondi Beach, Sydney CBD)

What you will do

• Assist newcomers during events, tours and outings with language support
• Accompany newcomers on public transport to and from Western Sydney to Welcome Program activities to help build confidence
• Assist in activity coordination as required – i.e. knowledge of public transport meeting places
• Support clients to complete photo consent forms on the way there and feedback forms on the way back
• Share your interest in Sydney events and activities
• Create a welcoming, enjoyable experience which encourages intercultural exchange and dialogue
• Take photos and provide feedback of the activities to Welcome Project Coordinators
• Help to create an encouraging, inclusive and supportive network for people seeking support

All volunteers have the responsibility to:

• Actively support SSI’s vision and values
• Work in accordance with SSI policies and procedures
• Follow all reasonable directions provided by SSI staff or delegate
• Maintain confidentiality and keep client information securely 

Essential

• Excellent communication and ability to speak either Arabic, Dari, Ukrainian, Farsi, Swahili etc
• Warm, friendly and welcoming nature
• Genuine interest in learning about different cultures and sharing knowledge with others

Desirable

• Previous experience working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds

Reimbursement

Volunteers, students and interns will have access to reimbursement for all pre- approved expenses including reasonable travel expenses. Volunteers, students, interns using their own vehicle will need to provide SSI Group with photocopies of their driver’s licence, comprehensive car insurance and compulsory third-party insurance.

Training

Volunteers, students, interns will be provided with access to SSI Group’s flexible, extensive and innovative training program.