1. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 1 Volunteers – Ordinary People, Extraordinary Effort The Value of Volunteering

2. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 2 Voluntary Efforts Benefit Everyone:  Children – by increased opportunities for learning and the visible support of parents in their learning environment  Parents – by an opportunity to be directly part of their child’s learning  Teaching Staff – by providing supports and services otherwise unavailable  Volunteers – by a sense of achievement and an opportunity for personal growth. Volunteering benefits everyone in different ways.

3. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 3 Children GAIN by: Having positive role models for involvement. Seeing their parents value their school. Having positive contacts with theirs and other parents Learning to value community efforts Having a vision broader than just their own needs

4. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 4 Parents GAIN by: Better understanding teaching goals Making a positive contribution to the school culture Experiencing the appreciation of children Contributing to the support of their school Learning more about children and how they learn.

5. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 5 Schools & Teachers GAIN by: Being able to offer additional and more personal teaching options. Ability to provide services and supports otherwise unavailable to students. Capacity to draw upon a broader range of skills. Better links to the community and parish. Feeling their efforts are valued by parents.

6. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 6 Volunteers GAIN by: An opportunity to develop skills or learn new ones. A sense of contributing to the community A closer opportunity to understand their child’s learning, and to support it. Opportunity to develop connections and friendships Opportunity to learn about issues facing children.

7. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 7 Range of Opportunities Canteen Support P&F Executive Fundraising IT Committee Debating Teams Sports Teams Transport/ Supervision at special events Rock & Water Program Reading Support Library Support Gifted & Talented Programs Special Needs Programs Support to school camps, dances, excursions Decision Making panels and committees

8. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 8 Volunteering is Flexible Contrary to opinion, the school volunteer opportunities are designed to be flexible and fit in with your many other commitments. Discuss your availability and interests with the volunteer co-ordinator to see what options suit you. During or after school hours Regular or irregular Short or longer duration Supports are available to you (such as available child care) Training is available (most you can do at home in your own time)

9. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 9 Action for You to Take NOW Obtain a “School Volunteers Package” and consider the options for your involvement. Discuss your interests, restraints, restrictions etc with the volunteer co- ordinator. They can help identify realistic options that will fit in with your needs.

10. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 10 Everyone Benefits Everyone benefits when you participate by volunteering in your school –Children Learn to value their school and community –School Services are provided which otherwise would not be –Volunteer Learn new skills, meet other parents, know the school better

11. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 11 Obtain a Volunteering Pamphlet Pamphlets are available that outline the many opportunities to volunteer. Get one from the Foyer of your school or contact the volunteer co-ordinator.

12. 6/8/2016 Copyright 2001 Federation of Parents & Friends, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle 12 ACT NOW Volunteering benefits everyone –Find out more by obtaining a package –Discuss your particular needs and limits to find an opportunity that suits your skills, interests and situation –Become involved