Volunteer Spotlight – Eden

At Healthy Cities Australia, our volunteers are at the heart of building healthier, more connected communities. Today we are proud to spotlight Eden, whose passion for early intervention and community wellbeing shines through every session.

“I am very passionate about increasing social connection to enhance wellbeing for the whole community! Sharing ideas and knowledge through play is how we learn best, no matter what age, and I love how children bring so much curiosity and energy to the table. We have a lot to learn from them.”

Why volunteer with Healthy Cities Australia?
During her second year of study, she decided to dedicate a few hours each week to volunteering and began exploring roles across the community development and public health sector. Healthy Cities Australia stood out for its strong focus on early intervention and preventative health. She was particularly drawn to the organisation’s holistic approach, promoting healthy eating, physical activity, and social connection as the foundations of healthy communities.

Getting started
After seeing a Facebook call-out for the Active In-Betweens after-school program, Eden applied. Although she had only a little experience working with children, she was eager to learn. Following onboarding, she began volunteering the very next week!

A rewarding experience
Eden says her volunteer journey so far has been both fun and meaningful. “It’s been great! Such a fantastic way to support the community and to gain experience while I’m doing it. She especially enjoys the variety each week brings, from martial arts and cooking to water slides, arts, and crafts.

“The kids always bring the energy, and through play we teach them different skills and healthy habits, it’s very rewarding.”

The best part of volunteering
For Eden, one of the most valuable aspects of volunteering is the mutual benefit. “I think it’s grounding and important to spend time with children, they encourage you to get up and be active, to be a bit silly! … It’s a reciprocal relationship.”

Thinking about volunteering?
Eden’s advice is simple: “Just commit! It’s only a couple of hours of your time but the impact it has on the children, and the community is worth it, don’t ever underestimate that. HCA are very supportive and encouraging and there’s always different events and opportunities to be a part of.”

Interested in joining the Healthy Cities Australia volunteer team? We’d love to hear from you!
Apply here: HCA Volunteer Application form Term 2 2026 – Fill in form