Volunteering is the lifeblood of any community, and here in Kiama, it’s no different. From delivering meals to helping with wildlife rescues, volunteers are making a quiet but powerful impact. Councillor Matt Brown has often said he’s proud of how our region comes together to lend a hand, but connecting potential volunteers with organisations has been an ongoing challenge.

Despite the abundance of local initiatives, finding a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Council doesn’t maintain a central database, leaving many to rely on word of mouth or scattered resources. But there are ways to get involved.

The Centre for Volunteering NSW and Healthy Cities Illawarra both connect people with organisations in need. Online platforms like SEEK Volunteer and GoVolunteer list opportunities ranging from wildlife rescue to community support.

Reaching out directly to local groups like St Vincent de Paul or WIRES can also be a great starting point. Even a scroll through social media or a visit to the local library might uncover a group looking for help.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about building connections and keeping the spirit of community alive. As Cr Matt Brown once said, “The strength of our region lies in its people.” Sharing this information and encouraging others to step forward will only make our community stronger. So, whether you have an hour or a day to spare, there’s a place for everyone to make a difference.

Read about some of our local volunteering heroes here.