News Volunteer Spotlight: Sarah, Selina & Tabitha Meet Sarah “The best thing about being an HCA volunteer is getting to meet really great community members, advocates, other volunteers and staff! It’s a lot of fun and everyone is very inspiring!” Why did you decide to become a HCA volunteer? I became an HCA volunteer because I love the work that HCA does in building stronger communities, and wanted to be a part of it. I also wanted to get involved for professional development both to enrich my understanding of playspace design, and build my skills in community engagement. How did you first get involved with Healthy Cities Australia? I came across an advertisement for volunteering at HCA online. I sent an expression of interest with a little ‘About Me’ blurb and from there I was connected with the Play Illawarra team. What has your experience as a volunteer been like so far? My experience as a volunteer has been great! I provide about half-a-day each week either in the office or online, and this helps with the daily behind the scenes work of Play Illawarra. Every month or so I will get out and about in the community and help with exciting events! From your perspective, what is the best thing about being a HCA volunteer? The best thing about being an HCA volunteer is getting to meet really great community members, advocates, other volunteers and staff! It’s a lot of fun and everyone is very inspiring! What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering with HCA? Do it, you’ll love it! It’s a brilliant opportunity to get involved with an awesome organisation, doing very important work and you will learn a great number of skills. Meet Selina “Volunteering with Healthy Cities Australia helped me connect with local life through play, community and meaningful moments.” Why did you decide to become a HCA volunteer? I came to Australia last year and really wanted to explore local life and culture in a meaningful way. Volunteering felt like the best way to do that, and Healthy Cities Australia stood out to me because of its focus on community, play and wellbeing. I especially connected with the idea of free play, which I strongly believe in. How did you first get involved with Healthy Cities Australia? I found the opportunity through Google while searching for volunteer roles. After reading more about HCA, I felt it was something I really wanted to be part of. What has your experience as a volunteer been like so far? It’s been such a fun and rewarding experience! 🤩 I started by supporting website updates, newsletters and blog writing, and then had the chance to join local play events like cardboard play and fishing experiences. Being part of real community activities made it even more meaningful. It’s amazing to see kids enjoy a variety of free play opportunities while exploring the beauty of the Illawarra. From your perspective, what is the best thing about being a HCA volunteer? The flexibility and openness. HCA really encourages you to try different things and get involved in ways that suit you. I’ve had the chance to work with different people, support activities, and connect with the community—it’s a great environment to learn and grow. What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering with HCA? Be bold and just give it a try! You never know what you might discover. It’s a great opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and meet new people while contributing to something meaningful. Any additional comments you’d like to share? I’m really grateful for how welcoming and supportive the HCA team is. It’s not just volunteering—it’s a space where you can explore, contribute, and truly feel part of the community. Meet Tabitha “It has been super rewarding and enjoyable for me.” Why did you decide to become a HCA volunteer? To gain more experience in an area that I am interested in (health promotion) and because Active In Betweeners sounded like a program that I would enjoy helping with. How did you first get involved with Healthy Cities Australia? I first saw positions advertised on social media and then applied through the website. What has your experience as a volunteer been like so far? It has been super rewarding and enjoyable for me. It’s gone very smoothly. From your perspective, what is the best thing about being a HCA volunteer? Feeling like it isn’t a job, as it is so enjoyable and feels like one big family. What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering with HCA? Sign up ASAP, I really wish I had signed up earlier. It doesn’t take much time out of your week and it’s so rewarding. Interested in volunteering with Healthy Cities Australia? Get started here!