Playgroup NSW Inc.

Volunteering for Playgroup NSW

Volunteers – the lifeblood of our organisation

Playgroup NSW is comprised of over 21,000 member families. All members are volunteers who work together in providing positive playgroup experiences for their children. Some volunteers are able and willing to give more of their time and go on to become members of their playgroup committees, zone committees and/or Playgroup NSW Board of Management members. Without the dedication of these volunteers, playgroup could not occur for the families of playgroups affiliated with Playgroup NSW.

Volunteering benefits not just the families who attend the playgroup, but it strengthens the local community – friendships are formed, information is shared, and support provided to families and friends in this very unique environment when families are embracing that challenging step called “parenthood”.

Volunteers become involved because initially they want the best for their children. In many cases that is then extended to wanting the great experiences and benefits to be shared with other peoples children – when those volunteers help out not just as a playgroup member, but participate on their playgroup committee/zone committee/or board member. The reward is not the thanks which they so richly deserve, but the knowledge that they are able to share what they have gained, with many other families.

Playgroup NSW is extremely fortunate to have the benefits of this dedicated, but unpaid force. At this time of year when so many families are about to say goodbye to their playgroup days – we would like to ask you to think about sharing the skills and knowledge you have gained during your playgroup journey from new member to experienced and skilled member. The skills you have gained should not be lost and we would like you to stay part of our playgroup family and help other playgroups and their members.

Training is provided – if you are not sure about how you can help, come along to a training session OR give us a call and we will be able to find a way to utilise your skills.

Some areas where you can provide assistance include –

• Child Health Presenters
• Follow-up calls to potential new members – to see if they need further assistance in finding a playgroup to suit
• Helping new playgroups to start – supporting and contacting the groups
• Manning information stands in shopping centres
• Language skills – if you speak another language we would be grateful for your help – some members would find the playgroup process easier if we had volunteers with another language to communicate
• Libraries/Council facilities/ECC centres – ensuring that the centres are visited and that the posters and brochures displays are maintained and up to date
• You may have an alternativre area of expertise which you feel would be useful to Playgroup NSW.