International Day of Disabled Persons

3 December 2007

Theme: "Decent work for persons with disabilities"

The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons, 3 December, aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

The theme of the Day is based on the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights and participation in society by persons with disabilities, established by the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, adopted by the General Assembly in 1982.

How the Day may be observed

Involve: Observance of the Day provides opportunities for participation by all interested communities - governmental, non-governmental and the private sector - to focus upon catalytic and innovative measures to further implement international norms and standards related to persons with disabilities. Schools, universities and similar institutions can make particular contributions with regard to promoting greater interest and awareness among interested parties of the social, cultural, economic, civil and political rights of persons with disabilities.

Organize: Hold forums, public discussions and information campaigns in support of the Day focusing on disability issues and trends and ways and means by which persons with disabilities and their families are pursuing independent life styles, sustainable livelihoods and financial security.

Celebrate: Plan and organize performances everywhere to showcase - and celebrate - the contributions by persons with disabilities to the societies in which they live and convene exchanges and dialogues focusing on the rich and varied skills, interests and aspirations of persons with disabilities.

Take Action: A major focus of the Day is practical action to further implement international norms and standards concerning persons with disabilities and to further their participation in social life and development on the basis of equality.

The media have especially important contributions to make in support of the observance of the Day - and throughout the year - regarding appropriate presentation of progress and obstacles implementing disability-sensitive policies, programmes and projects and to promote public awareness of the contributions by persons with disabilities.

More info: Visit WFOT or United Nations Enabled

Are you ready for an MS Challenge?

Ride and trek through exotic landscapes, make new friendships, challenge yourself physically and further the search for an MS Cure.

MS Challenge is a series of events run in partnership with Intrepid Travel. The concept of these events is that those participating are given the opportunity for a unique adventure off the beaten track, while fundraising for people living with multiple sclerosis.

There are several types of Challenges available, all of approximately two weeks' duration. We believe we have selected some of the best destinations on offer, including cycling and trekking adventures.

• Ride through Cambodia
• The Amazing Race
• Walk through Larapinta Trail
• Walk through little Tibet
• Ride through China

Visit the website: MS Challenge

Are you ready for your challenge?

Step-1: Make a personal contribution of $500 to register for your adventure – Easy!

Step-2: Raise a minimum of $5000 for your participation (depending on your challenge adventure chosen) in an MS Challenge. It’s not hard! Ask us how…

Step-3: You’ve done it!

MS Events organise your trip, which will see you taking off on the adventure of a lifetime.

What’s included?

International flights (ex-Syd, Mel), accommodation, transfers and ground transport, most meals, a bike (for cycling trips) an Intrepid Travel tour leader, local guides, new friends and priceless memories…

Flights are not included for Australian Based MS Challenge events. Need to know more?

For more information please contact MS Events on 1300 733 690 or email events@mssociety.com.au

MS Society -- Sydney to the Gong Bike Ride Volunteer

Sunday 4 November

Volunteers are required on Sunday 4 November for various roles including:

• Route Marshals - direct riders along the course
• Base Volunteers - assist with catering, information, sales, check-in etc at the rest stops and start/finish sites
• Base and Sector Managers
• Mobile Support - assist riders with general repairs along the course
• Bike Mechanics
• Massage
• Transport

You may choose to be placed at various locations from St Peters, Sydney all the way to Wollongong.

Why?

Gain valuable work experience in sports/ event management, meet new people & experience Sydney`s favourite cyclying event!

No experience is necessary, just a good attitude and a lot of enthusiasm.

The Sydney to the Gong Bike Ride is a fundraising event to help with the research and development of Multiple Sclerosis.

For additional information, please contact

Sarsha Sherriff on:

Phone: 9413 4166

Fax: 9413 4177

The Benevolent Society

Dementia social support : Phillip Bay (Sth East Sydney)
Give someone the gift of your time
Learn about dementia

Spend time in social visits, talking, hand massage... Our Dementia Specific Nursing Home in Phillip Bay (Sth East Sydney) is in great need of some caring, patient and understanding people to spend time in social visits with some of our residents and assist during the lunch hour.

Volunteers are needed to spend time in short visits, helping with hand massage, reminiscing, singing or just being there for someone. If you are interested in finding out more please be in contact.If you are interested in this position you can either apply below or go to our website at http://www.bensoc.org.au/director/howyoucanhelp/volunteer/apply.cfm to download forms.

For additional information, please contact
Amanda Gruhn on:
Phone: 02 9339 8086
Fax: 02 9360 2319

Wesley Mission -- Recreational Youth Support

3.00pm - 6.00pm
Riverstone
Thursdays - weekly

Riverstone Arts and Vocational Project supports young people through running and preparing cultural art groups and recreatioanal activities aimed at building self-confidence and meaningful relationship. As a member of our team, you will be able to enjoy the pleasure of helping others, learn new skills, enrich and empower another life and work on your career development.

So if you are non-judgmental, motivated and can show initiative, come and join us.T
hank you so much - our program would not be able to run without all the great support from our caring volunteers.

For additional information, please contact
Hana Rawlings on:
Phone: (02) 9263 5462
Fax: (02) 9264 4333

Can You Help In A Disaster? -- Australian Red Cross (NSW)

Regular training days to update your skills
Be Part Of An Emergency Team

This position is part of ActNow.
Join the 3,000 Red Cross volunteers from across NSW who assist our local communities during times of emergency or disaster. We are looking for calm, friendly, fit people and we will provide you with training so you can provide support in the event of a disaster happening.

This is a people orientated role working out of the evacuation and disaster recovery centre that would be set up in your area. You would be a listening ear for people who have been affected by the disaster. You would also help in the smooth running of the centre as directed by team leaders.

To qualify to assist in a disaster there is a one day training course for the Personal Support role.

We have teams in all suburbs and regions so you are matched with the group you live closest to. Ongoing training is also offered to volunteers on listening and communication skills.

All volunteers for this position must be over 18 years of age.
Teams operate across NSW and we`ll refer you to your local team. nswvolunteers@redcross.org.au

For additional information, please contact
Carol Lynn on:
Phone: 02 9229 4286
Fax: 02 9229 4265

Wesley Mission -- Musician

Surry Hills
Every first Sunday of each month
9.30am - 11.30am

We are currently looking for a musician who would be willing to play Christian music to be supportive to those who minister to the homeless and marginalised.

This volunteer activity is every first Sunday of each month from 9.30am - 11.30am at Edward Eagar Lodge Community Church in Surry Hills (348a Bourke Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010).

We would really appreciate a volunteer who can play an instrument (e.g. a guitar, piano) and who can lead singing whilst playing. Come and join our volunteer team, enjoy the pleasure of helping others and meet new interesting people.

To apply please contact Don Walker on 9361 0981.

For additional information, please contact
Hana Rawlings on:
Phone: (02) 9263 5462
Fax: (02) 9264 4333

ACON - CSN -- Volunteer Carer

On-going Carer Support Meetings
Comprehensive Training provided

The Volunteer Carer is trained to deliver CSN services effectively and confidently to clients living at home with HIV/AIDS. The carer may be called upon to assist the client with activities of daily living such as shopping, cooking, cleaning or other practical home based tasks.

Willingness to attend entire orientation training course (2 days, Saturday, Sunday)

Duties may include any one, or combination of, the following:

• Cooking
• Cleaning
• Shopping
• Listening, feedback and ordinary conversation

Apply on-line at www.acon.org.au/csn

For additional information, please contact
Colin Dent on:
Phone: 02 9206 2038
Fax: 02 9206 2092

Ankali Project -- Emotional Support Volunteer

Would you support people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS?
Can you be emotionally available, non judgmental and a good listener?
Can you be available up to six hours per week?

The Ankali Project trains and supports volunteers to provide emotional and social support to people living with HIV/AIDS, their carers, their partners, their families and their friends. The Project covers the whole of the Sydney Metropolitan area.

There is no such things as a `typical` volunteer; they range in age from their mid twenties to late seventies and come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We look for people who can be warm, friendly and accepting, can give up to five hours per week to their `client` and are able to commit to the Project for at least six months.

Volunteers are also expected to attend a one hour support group each week where they can discuss feelings and issues that arise in their volunteer work. The support groups are held mainly in the evenings at Surry Hills although there is one group held during the day.

For additional information, please contact
Administration Officer on:
Phone: (02) 9332 9742
Fax: (02) 9360 3243

Ankali Project -- Emotional Support Volunteer

Would you support people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS?

Can you be emotionally available, non judgmental and a good listener?
Can you be available up to six hours per week?


The Ankali Project trains and supports volunteers to provide emotional and social support to people living with HIV/AIDS, their carers, their partners, their families and their friends. The Project covers the whole of the Sydney Metropolitan area.



There is no such things as a `typical` volunteer; they range in age from their mid twenties to late seventies and come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We look for people who can be warm, friendly and accepting, can give up to five hours per week to their `client` and are able to commit to the Project for at least six months.



Volunteers are also expected to attend a one hour support group each week where they can discuss feelings and issues that arise in their volunteer work. The support groups are held mainly in the evenings at Surry Hills although there is one group held during the day.


For additional information, please contact

Administration Officer on:

Phone: (02) 9332 9742

Fax: (02) 9360 3243

The Heart Foundation -- Seven Villages -- Seven Bridges

Event Volunteer

Sunday, 28 October 2007

Up to 20,000 people are expected to take part in the 2007 Seven Bridges Walk! A 22km walk which will cross the

• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Pyrmont Bridge
• Anzac Bridge
• Iron Cove Bridge
• Gladesville Bridge
• Tarban Creek Bridge
• Figtree Bridge

This free non-competitive event promotes the participation of people in a healthy activity, plus the chance to see some parts of Sydney not usually visited. During the event there will be gold coin collection points with all money donated distributed between 4 major charities:

• Heart Foundation
• The Cancer Council
• Beyond Blue
• Diabetes Australia

There are a number of exciting positions for volunteers throughout the day on a 4 hour rotating shift basis (so plenty of time to take in the sights as well).

• Positions include:
• Team Leaders
• Bridge Marshal
• Course Marshal
• Village - Drink Station Marshals
• Village - Registration Marshals
• Village - Venue Marshals
• Traffic & Pedestrian Control Marshals

All volunteers will receive an event T-Shirt, Cap and a lunch pack on the day.

All volunteers will go into the draw for exciting prizes including:

• one of four ASICS $200.00 vouchers
• one of seven double passes to Sydney Pet & Animal Expo

For additional information, please contact
Denise Douglas on:
Phone: 02 9219 2476
Fax: 02 9219 2424

The Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) Program

The Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) Program is an Australian Government, AusAID initiative which supports skilled young Australians who want to live, work and make a difference in the Asia Pacific region. .... interested? Visit the website for complete details.

About AYAD

Become a AYAD

AYAD Assignments (Search OT positions)


For further information please contact:

Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) Program
Email: info@ayad.com.au

FREECALL: 1800 225 592

AYAD Program
c/o Austraining International
Level 1, 41 Dequetteville Terrace
Kent Town, SA 5067

Tel: +61 8 8364 8500
Fax: +61 8 8364 8585

A life changing experience

Youth Challenge Australia is a life changing experience

Youth Challenge Australia involves Australian youth in hands-on projects in developing countries to address local communities development issues.

The Youth Challenge program is ideal if you are:

Aged 18 to 30
Motivated to make a difference
Interested in seeing the world
Seeking a team based experience
Available for 5 to 12 weeks

Our projects require a deep commitment and engagement on your part. Once you are on project, the work schedule can be demanding and living conditions are very basic. But the rewards are immense - you will tap into hidden personal resources, push yourself to new heights and make a difference.

For more information and to register your interest visit the webite at:
Youth Challenge Australia

Multicultural Mothers Group

North Ryde Community Aid and Information Centre

• Do you enjoy interacting with small children and their mum’s?
• Do you have an interest in different cultures?

Every Friday, we hold a multicultural mothers group between 10am and 12 midday at the centre. This is a social group for mothers living in the Ryde area, who would enjoy the opportunity to meet other mothers from different cultural and language backgrounds.

Our volunteers help set up the toys, arrange a light morning tea, welcome and socialise with the mums, and help clear everything away at the end of the session.

No childcare experience is required – simply an interest in children, a caring nature and an appreciation of different cultures.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.
This group is funded with thanks to Ryde City Council.

For additional information, please contact
Sabina Morrow on:
Phone: 02 9888 3380
Fax: 02 9887 1263

Breakfast Club Volunteers

Australian Red Cross - Good Start Breakfast Club
Lewisham, Glebe, Alexandria and Surry Hills
1 to 2 hrs per morning - Monday thru Friday

The Good Start Breakfast Club TM is a community program run by Australian Red Cross in partnership with Sanitarium and Coles, where volunteers provide breakfast every day for school kids in areas of greatest need around Australia.

Eating a nutritious breakfast can positively affect a child’s ability to concentrate at school, their social behaviour and early physical development. The Good Start Breakfast Club program provides an interactive and educational approach towards encouraging the importance of breakfast and healthy eating habits.

Volunteers are currently usually one day a week on Mondays thru Fridays from 8.15am – 9.15am in the Alexandria, Surry Hills, Glebe, Lewisham, Maroubra areas.

Free Volunteer Training will be given to all volunteers

For additional information, please contact Julie Stralow on:
Phone: 02 9911 9856
Fax: 02 97475057

MS Society NSW

• Community Visitor
• Make A Difference

Multiple Sclerosis NSW/VIC needs volunteers to undertake the very important role of Community Visitor. We offer flexible hours, training and support. Come and join our great volunteer team. We are currently recruiting visitors for aged care homes in Marsfield. Isolated residents need companionship - someone to talk to, perhaps to read to them, take them for a walk or play a board game.

To find out more contact the Client Services Volunteer Coordinator at MS NSW.

The CVS is a funding initiative of the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
For additional information, please contact

Lynne Ali on:

Phone: 02-94114522

Fax: 02-94111712

Volunteer Assistant - Group activities.

Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre

• Sports, Arts, Outings
• Assist fun dynamic group activities for people with disabilities.

Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre is seeking volunteers to assist with its Saturday group activities programme, for people with disabilities.

The Weekend Respite and Recreation Program provides exciting outings and activities for people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. Outings include going to museums, Luna Park, the Zoo, community festivals, restaurants, bowling, and the movies, as well as art workshops, sports activities and getting ready for the Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre disco.

Volunteers provide social support and assistance to group participants, under the direction of the team leader. Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre provides support, training, and lunch to volunteers.

If you would be happy to volunteer one Saturday a month we would love to hear from you. Please note, as per Rozelle Neighbourhood Centre policy, all volunteers are required to undergo a criminal records check, and sign a declaration relating to Working with Children.

For additional information, please contact
Keeley Ray (Wed and Thur) on:

Phone: (02) 9555 8988
Fax: (02) 9810 8532