The power of volunteers
Volunteers play a crucial role in our society, providing invaluable support to communities and organisations in need. The importance of these programs shouldn't be underestimated, as they address various social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. Many sectors, such as mental health, disability, food and emergency relief, arts and heritage, and sports, depend heavily on volunteer involvement.
Interestingly, according to Volunteering Australia, in April 2022 about a quarter (26.7 percent) of Australians had done formal volunteering in the previous 12 months and just under half (46.5 percent) had undertaken informal volunteering in the previous four weeks.
Volunteer programs rely on the dedication and selflessness of individuals who willingly give their time and skills to make a positive impact. Volunteering is like the societal glue that brings people together. By engaging in volunteer work, individuals can contribute to causes they are passionate about, improve their own sense of well-being, promote positive change, and create a better world for everyone.
Avenues for volunteer funding
There are many ways volunteers and the organisations they represent can secure funding. It's important to explore a diversity of funding sources to help maintain financial stability, maximise funding opportunities, and ultimately continue providing valuable services to the community.
In our interactions with The Grants Hub community, we are often guiding members in finding the latest grants for volunteers, and we are regularly asked about other approaches to funding. Here are a few common ways to secure financial support:
1. Grants: Grants for volunteers and volunteer programs are available from many different sources including foundations, corporations, and government agencies. The Grants Hub has all of the latest volunteer grants, all in one place. If you haven't done so already, feel free to sign up for a 14 day free trial to take a look around and find volunteer-related grants that are open right now.
2. Financial support: Many funding providers offer opportunities that enable individual volunteers to access scholarships, fellowships, free or reduced-fee courses, discounts, skills development, travel reimbursements, financial assistance, and more.
3. Donations: Encourage individual and corporate donations towards your volunteer program and other activities. Set up fundraising campaigns, donation drives, or online platforms to accept contributions.
4. Corporate Sponsorships or Partnerships: Collaborate with businesses for sponsorship or partnership opportunities. Many companies are willing to support not-for-profits and charities with funding and also encourage their staff to participate in volunteering days or events. By engaging corporate volunteers, you will be raising your profile, and funding opportunities may follow.
5. Workplace Giving: In recent years, workplace giving has emerged as a popular and effective way for companies to support causes in their community. Encourage your volunteers to speak to their employer about employee giving. Employees are often able to nominate causes they care about for pro bono and financial support. You may be able to access funding through corporate-matched giving and other initiatives through these programs.
Latest volunteer grants
Securing funds is vital for the sustainability and growth of volunteers and the organisations they represent. Fortunately, there are a number of grant programs currently open. Here are some you might like to look over:
Good Sports Awards
Recognises the strong clubs and dedicated people who are passionate about their community, their members and making their club the very best it can be.
Applications close 12 November 2023.
Save to Favourites/Calendar | Apply Now
Volunteer Grants 2023-2024
Supports the work of local community organisations by enabling the inclusion of vulnerable people and promoting awareness to increase participation in volunteering.
Applications close 24 November 2023.
Save to Favourites/Calendar | Apply Now
Strengthening Rural Communities - Small & Vital
Aims to give the thousands of small rural, regional and remote communities across Australia an opportunity to access funding to support broad community needs.
Applications close 4 December 2023.
Save to Favourites/Calendar | Apply Now
Aged Persons Welfare Foundation Grants
Provides financial support and encouragement to organisations throughout Australia devoted to improving the welfare and quality of life of elderly people.
Applications close 30 June 2024.
Save to Favourites/Calendar | Apply Now
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