CDU celebrates National Student Volunteer Week

Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Careers Centre celebrated National Student Volunteer Week by hosting two volunteer expos in partnership with Volunteering NT, the peak body for volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations across the NT.

The expos gave a chance for community and charitable organisations to showcase and promote their volunteer opportunities.

Organisations that were involved included Red Cross, Vinnies, The Smith Family, CareFlight, Wildcare NT, RDA, STEPS, Melaleuca, RSPCA, Villy, Lions Club, Cancer Council, Kindness Shake, Victims of Crime and Variety NT.

CDU’s Employability Programs Officer Caroline Thompson said the expos where a great opportunity for the organisations to build connections with CDU students while promoting the great work they do for our community and seeking new volunteers.

“Volunteers are the backbone of most of these organisations and they simply couldn’t provide their services without engaged and enthusiastic people who are willing to donate their time to helping others,” Mrs Thompson said.

“Volunteering is an excellent way for students to give back to their community while developing or practicing new employability skills and making strong connections, networks and friendships all at the same time.”

This year’s theme for the week was Give. Grow. Belong which highlights how our current generation is more socially conscious than ever before.

“We had a great turnout of students at both events which shows that CDU students are keen to get involved with volunteering,” Mrs Thompson said.

The Careers Centre also hosted a volunteer celebration event, where CDU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Fiona Coulson recognised the contribution CDU students have made through their volunteer involvement in the community.

National Student Volunteer Week is celebrated every August.