In August 2022, Lena, Julian, and Marie left their homes in Germany to embark on a 12-month volunteering journey at Warrah. Now, several months later, the trio describes their experience as life-changing. For many years, Warrah has been partnering with Freunde Waldorf, an international volunteer organisation, to invite young international graduates to volunteer on our Sydney campus.
Through this partnership, volunteers like Lena, Julian and Marie, get the chance to experience different cultures and lifestyles, develop new skills, and gain new friends while making a positive difference in the lives of children and adults with disabilities.
Unique Opportunity for International Volunteers
The international volunteer program is a unique opportunity that provides volunteers with accommodation and living expenses in exchange for their skills, knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for making a difference. Volunteers participate in a diverse range of activities such as working with children in the school, contributing to the Biodynamic farm, and assisting in the organic farm shop. On weekends and holidays, the volunteers have the chance to explore Australia and experience its unique culture and lifestyle. This enriching experience broadens the horizons of volunteers and creates unforgettable memories.
Positive Impact on our School Students
Principal of Warrah Specialist School, Anna Wetzel says “We are very grateful that these wonderful young people are willing to travel to a new country to contribute in this way. We teach them about our approach to education, which is centred around the individual needs of each child, and we encourage them to bring their own creativity and ideas to the classroom.”
“We believe that this exchange of knowledge and culture is one of the things that makes our school community so rich and vibrant. Our volunteers work tirelessly to provide the best possible care and support to our children, helping them to achieve their full potential. We have seen first-hand the positive impact that volunteers have on our school and the lives of our students”.
Warrah’s Thriving Volunteer Program
The international program is just one part of Warrah’s growing volunteer program, which invites individuals, local schools, corporations, and community organisations to make a positive contribution to the lives of people living with disabilities. We welcome volunteers from local schools such as Pacific Hills, Redfield College, and Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School. Staff from corporate organisations such as Deloitte, Australian Catholic University, and Moitts Demolition & Excavation have also lent a hand at Warrah. The Master Weavers’ Guild and Dural Men’s Shed are treasured partners that have played a significant role in supporting Warrah’s mission.
National Volunteer Week
On National Volunteer Week, which runs from 15-21 May, we extend our gratitude for the dedication of all volunteers. Their passion, commitment, and support strengthen the community by providing important social connection and inclusion. Participants and students benefit greatly from their contributions.
We particularly thank our wonderful international volunteers, Lena, Julian, and Marie, who will return to Germany in August 2023, where they will continue their studies. Warrah will welcome the next cohort of international volunteers in September 2023.
Become a Volunteer at Warrah
Delia Gray, Warrah’s CEO, hopes that more individuals will be inspired to volunteer for a cause that aligns with their personal values and beliefs. With dedication and an open mind, volunteering can be an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Warrah invites individuals, schools, corporations, and community organisations to join us in making a positive impact on the lives of people living with disabilities.
To find out more about volunteer opportunities at Warrah Society, and help create a ripple effect of positive change, visit www.warrah.org.au/volunteer.
