Volunteer
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Volunteer

VOLUNTEERING AT ORYGEN 

Volunteer engagement supports Orygen’s vision and mission by finding meaningful opportunities for members of the public, from students to retirees, to engage in the most practical way possible with our values and our work. 

If you would like to get involved, view our volunteer initiative below, Orygen Assist. You can register your interest to volunteer and receive updates when the program is recruiting new volunteers.  

ORYGEN ASSIST 

Orygen Assist is our volunteer-run program that provides access to essential items for young people and their families including non-perishable food, clothing, and hygiene products. This is made possible by our charity partners Foodbank Victoria, Thread Together and Pinchapoo who supply these items.  

Our volunteers operate a drop-in shop at our Parkville site, as well as an online ordering and deliveries service across the Orygen sites for clinicians and staff on behalf of their young people and families.   

Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 10am-4pm

Some things to know if you wish to start volunteering at Orygen Assist:  

  • Requirements for volunteering include the right to live and work in Australia, current national police check, current Working with Childrens Check and at least three COVID-19 vaccinations.  

  • Volunteer roles include onsite support, admin support and delivery drivers.  

  • Shifts and availability can be flexible, however we do ask for a minimum 6-month commitment. 

Register now

Once you've registered, one of our team members will be in touch.

Meet an Orygen Assist Volunteer

Xan 

How did you find out about Orygen and the Orygen Assist volunteer opportunity? I found out about Orygen because I attend the University of Melbourne, which has a strong working relationship with Orygen. That influenced me to have a look at Orygen's website, where I found out about the Orygen Assist volunteer opportunity. 

What drew you to volunteer for Orygen Assist? I was drawn to Orygen Assist because it provides food, hygiene and clothing staples to young people and their families on an informal, walk-in basis. I liked the idea of meeting Orygen clients and their families to see firsthand the people who Orygen helps.

What impact does Orygen Assist have on the community? Given the cost-of-living and housing crises, now more than ever, Orygen Assist helps young people and their families access essential items that they might not be able to afford to buy. It's nice to think that we're providing some relief to people who might not have enough food or clothes for themselves or their loved ones. 

What is your favourite part of volunteering? I find it rewarding when I can help young people pick out items that will benefit them, like nice jumpers to get through the chilly weather, and food that'll be simple to cook and tasty to eat. 

A huge thank you to Orygen Assist’s 2024-25 grant supporters 
City of Melbourne and Metro.