Vinnies Kids Club - Volunteering
St Vincent De Paul’s Society (Vinnies) has been running a Kids Club at Gungahlin Library every Saturday from 1:30-3:00 pm. I first found this opportunity when it was advertised through the Sentral Notices in August. It is a place for young primary school kids from different cultural backgrounds to make friends, practise literacy and numeracy skills they learn in school and feel supported in their community. The Kids Club also provides a refuge for the kids to have time away from their families, connect with others and develop their skills in a safe environment. For many of these kids, it may be the only safe space where they have a chance to explore their freedom.
I have begun volunteering at the Kids Club on the weekends, alongside Dr Afghan and many other dedicated volunteers. The experience is very rewarding, where I learn how to communicate with a variety of age groups in different situations. They have endless enthusiasm and energy, so it is always fun to have conversations with them, play games and read books. The program provides the kids with a sense of freedom to participate in the activities of their choice - from picture books to bingo games, they learn new skills and have a fun time. I enjoy creating a safe space for these kids to express themselves and have fun after a busy week at school.
This volunteering experience has given me a chance to consider what I would like to do with my future and has allowed me to gain experience that is vital to many pathways in many jobs and careers. I am able to explore my passions and help others in my community in a context outside of school and home life, taking this with me into the years to come.
Thank you to Vinnies Gungahlin for taking me on as a volunteer, and thank you to Dr Afghan for supporting me through this journey!




Elise W
Year 10, Drexel