National Student Volunteer Week 2023: Celebrating the impact of Student Volunteer Programs on the Gold Coast.

National Student Volunteer Week 2023: Celebrating the impact of Student Volunteer Programs on the Gold Coast.

National Student Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate the incredible impact that student volunteers have in their communities. This year’s theme, “Give. Grow. Belong.” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the week, which runs from August 7th to 13th. On the Gold Coast, there are some truly remarkable school volunteering programs that are making a positive difference in our community. From disaster relief initiatives to promoting a sense of belonging, these programs are shining examples of what can be achieved when young people come together for a common cause.

Mudgeeraba Special School 

Last year, VGC’s annual Gold Coast Volunteer Award event recognised the Skill Development Program at Mudgeeraba Special School as the Student Volunteer Program of the Year. A well-deserved award given that it enables students to regularly participate in volunteer work at the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, allowing them to experience firsthand the many benefits of volunteering. Steve Dowlan, Deputy Principal of Mudgeeraba Special School, says that the program not only helps students develop their skills but also allows them to make valuable contributions to their community.

“Our volunteering program provides practical and age-appropriate pathways for our students to develop their skills while contributing to the community around them.” 

As a result of the program, students from Mudgeeraba Special School have completed competencies towards their Certificate I in Agrifood Operations, and Certificate I in Active Volunteering courses. They have also developed their literacy, numeracy and vocational skills in a practical, real-world setting and have learnt valuable, transferable skills in professional and social communication.

A.B. Paterson College

One program that stands out for its community engagement efforts is the Student Volunteering Program at A.B. Paterson College. The school has organised a number of impressive initiatives, including trips to Winton to assist farmers after floods, and to Africa for a mission trip. In addition, the program encourages community building through activities such as car washes and beach clean-ups.

St Hilda’s School

Another program that deserves recognition is St Hilda’s Student Volunteering Program. This program focuses on disaster relief initiatives and support, as well as their St Hilda’s Foundation which was established to bring life changing opportunities to young women, their families and the community. Their efforts have made a significant impact in our community.

Pacific Pines State High

Pacific Pines State High’s Pacific Pines Alliance is yet another great program that promotes community engagement and belonging. The initiative offers local businesses, families, and the wider community the opportunity to work in partnership with Pacific Pines State High to build a local network. Through their efforts, they have created a sense of community and pride among their students.

All Saints Anglican School

All Saints Anglican School’s Service Learning Program is integrated into their curriculum from Pre Prep to Year 12 and is a teaching and learning method that connects meaningful community service experiences like garden work and visiting seniors with academic learning, personal growth and civic responsibility. By instilling a sense of empathy and social responsibility in their students, they are helping to create a generation of caring and responsible citizens.

Marymount College

Marymount College Burleigh Waters has the Rosie’s Student Engagement Program. The Rosies Student Engagement Program is a program for Year 11 and 12 students, run in conjunction with Rosies volunteer street teams. Students are given the opportunity to participate in street outreach which helps them gain insight into the nature of homelessness and broaden their understanding of the issues faced by people who are socially isolated.

These programs are just a few examples of the many ways that Gold Coast students are making a difference in their community. By volunteering their time and energy, they are creating a brighter future for all of us. Let us celebrate their efforts and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

If you know of any Student Volunteer Programs that deserve recognition, nominations are now open for our 2023 Gold Coast Volunteer Awards.

You can find out more and nominate them here – https://volunteeringgc.org.au/student-volunteer-program-of-the-year-award/