DURING the past fortnight, something powerful has been happening behind the doors at Kerang Neighbourhood House.
As part of their Neighbourhood House Week celebrations, a series of workshops have brought together volunteers and community leaders to learn, connect, and reflect – creating ripples of change across the region.
The first two workshops, held in late April, were designed to build the skills and confidence of those who are the backbone of community services – the volunteers.
Delivered by Helen and Alistair from Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre, and funded by the government, the workshops explored a range of topics vital to building strong, inclusive, and respectful volunteer environments.
Participants delved into areas such as communication, codes of conduct, conflict resolution, rights and responsibilities, teamwork, unconscious bias, and cultural competency.
But it wasn’t just about theory.
These sessions created space for open discussion, real stories, and peer learning.
KNH Op Shop volunteer Jan Thomas attended both sessions.
Though not in a leadership position, she said the workshops gave her valuable insight.
“Although not a manager or a leader of volunteers at KNH, as a volunteer at the KNH Op Shop I attended the above workshop to understand more of the policies and procedures that go into maintaining and running all these services,” she said.
“I found the workshop very informative, therefore giving me more insight as to why things are done a certain way.”
Ms Thomas’ reflections captured the spirit of these sessions – not just skill-building but fostering understanding and appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that keeps a vibrant community hub like KNH operating smoothly.
KNH manager Claire Fry said the workshops reflect the organisation’s deep respect for its volunteers.
“Our volunteers are truly wonderful. Without them, we simply couldn’t do what we do,” she said.
“They bring so much heart and strength to our programs, and we are incredibly grateful for every hour they give.
“The ripples they create through their kindness and generosity reach further than they realise.”
The success of these initial sessions has inspired even more opportunities for the community to get involved.
Two additional workshops are coming up on Tuesday, May 13, 10am-1.30pm (training for managers and leaders of volunteers, ideal for anyone coordinating or supervising volunteers, including volunteers who lead others).
The second session is on Wednesday, May 14, 9.30am-12noon (volunteer skills workshop, open to all volunteers, and those from other organisations, groups or businesses who work alongside volunteers).
Both sessions are free, include morning tea or lunch, and are open to the wider community.
Bookings are essential and can be made by contacting KNH.
To round out the week of celebration, KNH will host a volunteer open day on Thursday, May 16, 4pm-7pm at 11 Scoresby Street, Kerang.
This event is a highlight of Neighbourhood House Week, which this year carries the theme Ripples of Change – a perfect fit for the enduring impact of local volunteerism.
The open day will feature a free barbecue, activities, and a showcase of the diverse talents and contributions of KNH’s volunteer team.
It’s also an open invitation to anyone curious about volunteering to come along, ask questions, and see what being part of the Neighbourhood House community is all about.
KNH is always welcoming new volunteers – whether someone can give an hour a week or more.
The organisation is also registered with Centrelink’s Volunteer Work Program, offering opportunities for those meeting mutual obligation requirements to engage in meaningful community service.
From those offering a listening ear at the Chatty Cafe to others preparing meals or sorting donations, each volunteer is part of a much larger picture, one that’s changing lives in small but powerful ways.
This Neighbourhood House Week, the message is simple: Every effort counts. Every act matters. And together, we create ripples of change.
