Why Recruit Volunteers from Diverse Cultural and Language Backgrounds?

Transcription

1 Why Recruit Volunteers from Diverse Cultural and Language Backgrounds?

2 About Volunteering Australia National peak body working to advance volunteering in the Australian community. Its role is to represent the diverse views and needs of the volunteer sector while promoting the activity of volunteering as one of enduring social, cultural and economic value.

3 It s easier than you think! People from CALD backgrounds: Are available and want to volunteer Bring extra value to your organisation Are not as difficult to recruit and involve as you think May need support as volunteers

4 Some facts Over six million people born overseas; more than 200 languages / dialects spoken at home From these people approx 25% volunteer Approx 35% of Australians over the age of 18 volunteer In Victoria 23% of people born overseas

5 National Survey Findings Research conducted in 2004/05 (AMF & VA) Participation and time spent in volunteering by CALD volunteers is substantial. CALD volunteers contribute time formally and informally Involved in the broader community and their own communities. Mostly involved in aged care, schools, charities and sporting.

6 National Survey cont Identified barriers: Language and comprehension All people have time constraints! Ageing populations - attracting all age groups

7 Motivations to volunteer The reasons that motivate CALD volunteers to volunteer are similar to the reasons found in the broader community: to do something worthwhile; help own community; personal satisfaction.

8 Benefits to organisations Access to a wider pool of potential volunteers Access to new perspectives that volunteers from diverse backgrounds & experiences can offer Increased awareness of different cultures amongst both paid staff and volunteers

9 Benefits cont Expanded awareness & knowledge of global issues Creation of a multilingual organisation and enhanced communication with client groups from CALD backgrounds Strengthened relationships with your local community Creation of an accessible and inclusive volunteer program that reflects the diversity of the community.

10 Planning Know your local demographics Know your organisation s needs and capacity Secure internal support management and staff Make sure you have inclusive policies and procedures - a welcoming & supportive culture Identify key stakeholders community connections Work in partnership with other community organisations

11 Recruitment Know your community Work out how best to communicate Account for limited English Don t stereotype / don t make assumptions!

12 Welcoming & Orienting Limited English should not become an obstacle to participation Ensure workplace documents culturally and linguistically sensitive

13 Supporting Volunteers Integrate support into core practices Harness support of existing volunteers and paid staff Move from them and us to us

14 Resources Practical Guide Involving Volunteers from Diverse Cultural and Language Backgrounds in Your Organisation Training Manual Recruiting and Supporting Volunteers from Diverse Cultural and Language Backgrounds Download free from:

15 Things to remember Policies - National Standards framework Volunteering will have different meanings to different cultures Effective communication

16 Additional resources Designing volunteer roles and writing position descriptions National Survey of Volunteering Issues 2008 Supporting Volunteering activities in Australian Muslim communities Research about Muslim Youth s experiences of & attitudes towards volunteering

17 Further information: Sandra Wilson Policy Officer Volunteering Australia T: F: E: W: