Your NNC: June 2026 Newsletter
“We offer such a range of services and roles that there is almost certainly something you can do to contribute, and we would love to have you on the team.” Phil Phil was drawn to volunteer at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre as a way to give back to the community and also gain experience in the sector. From helping clients connect with services to sharing chats over a cup of tea with regular visitors to One Stop Shop, Phil says even small contributions can make a big impact in the lives of others. Q What first inspired you to start volunteering with NNC? Volunteering at NNC was first recommended to me by my neighbour as a way to gain relevant experience while I study Community Services at TAFE. NNC seemed a perfect fit, as I have been an Inner West local for my entire adult life, and I lived just off South King St for several years. Newtown will always have a special place in my heart, because of its live music scene, and the fact that it is such a creative and cultural hub – it is the first suburb where I truly felt at home. The opportunity to give back to this community is of huge value to me. Q Can you share a moment that really stayed with you emotionally? It was the first time I assisted a client with a phone call to connect him with a housing service. We sat on hold together for quite a while, and despite a significant language barrier, we had quite a moving conversation – he told me a little about his situation, but we also just spoke about music, life and perseverance. I will never forget the way he overflowed with gratitude once we’d successfully organised a place for him to stay and transport to get himself and his belongings to the accommodation. Q How has volunteering at NNC impacted you personally? My volunteer work at NNC is a cornerstone of a pretty major career pivot for myself, and it cannot be overstated how much of an impact my experiences here have had on my confidence and hope for the future. I’ve seen firsthand how my contributions can make a real difference to individual clients, and as I become more resourceful and build on my experience and qualifications, I know I can do more and more good in our community, and that I have a future career I can be proud of. Q What would people be surprised to learn about the work volunteers do at NNC? It really is varied – even within one role, every day is a little different. And it can be genuinely surprising to see the direct and indirect impacts that even a small contribution can make to members of our community. Q What keeps you coming back to volunteer, and what does being part of the NNC community mean to you? The people – both staff and clients. The team here are so welcoming and encouraging, and it is obvious every day how much they all care about the work they do, the organisation and the larger community. Getting to know our regulars at One Stop Shop has also been truly rewarding. I can be quite a shy person, but gradually building rapport and familiarity with people from a range of backgrounds and situations has felt really special, and every week, I’m excited and relieved to see each one of them walk through the door so we can have a chat. Q What advice would you give someone considering volunteering with NNC? Do it. Check the website, or get in touch and have a chat about how you might be able to help. We offer such a range of services and roles that there is almost certainly something you can do to contribute, and we would love to have you on the team. The feeling of contributing to the greater good is its own reward, and you will be glad you got involved. |
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