Established in 1985, Monash Resource Centre is a hub for volunteer recruitment in the Monash region. Volunteers are welcomed every weekday and placed into positions which meet their requirements. Every Wednesday morning a special recruitment session is held for Cantonese speaking volunteers where a Cantonese speaking worker assists in placement of those from our Chinese community and this is proving to be very successful.
Volunteers are offered training in a variety of topics ranging from Introduction to Volunteering, First Aid, Anxiety and Depression and Food Handling and these sessions are always appreciated and well attended.
In addition to the volunteer recruitment part of the organisation, mvrc offers a Social Support Program for Home and Community Care clients. This includes transport for frail aged persons and persons with a disability to essential and allied health appointments. There are also a number of small luncheon groups and shopping groups for frail persons which are organised by our wonderful volunteers, as well as a Mens’ Luncheon providing friendship and laughter and a chance for social interaction. Every year our volunteers and staff host a ‘Christmas in July’ for clients and we also have various events coinciding with Seniors’ Week. Many of our older people also attend Morning Melodies and Film Luncheons as well as ‘Out and About’ groups and our volunteers always ensure that everything runs smoothly and everyone has a great time.
MVRC is well known for hosting many Special Events throughout the year. These include celebration of National Volunteers’ Day, International Volunteers’ Week, Harmony Day and others and are always happy times with many volunteers and staff members in attendance.
Another successful program centred at MVRC is the Seniors’ Register. The Seniors’ Register is a joint initiative between the City of Monash, MVRC, Mt. Waverley and Glen Waverley Police. Seniors joining the register receive a personal visit from a staff member who will also give some information about safety in the home. Volunteers then keep in contact with the senior person by telephone every month.
To contact Monash Volunteer Resource Centre to become a volunteer or to seek assistance phone 9562 0414 anytime between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.