Contributing time, expertise or experience is highly valued at Brain Injury SA (BISA). Volunteers at BISA are provided with appropriate training to the role they may undertake and are given relevant protections to the work they do.
This includes:
- Volunteer and other Insurance, depending on role held
- Policies and procedures to inform work undertaken
- Recognition by the organisation through inclusion in major events
People choose to volunteer for a range of reasons, but we hope that the experience also returns benefits to the volunteer.
Things volunteers often report enjoying are:
- Participating within an organisation whose work they support
- Meeting and assisting people, sometimes through shared experience of ABI
- Learning new skills and gaining valuable experience useful in preparation for or return to paid employment or just for the value in personal development
- Being valued for an important contribution to the work of BISA
In applying to volunteer at BISA, a position will not automatically become available and we know it is important that we work with volunteers in ways that are safe for both volunteers and our participants.
Your application begins a registration process which includes:
- Clarifying your interests and availability
- Undertaking any necessary checks or clearances including referees, disability worker screening
- Completion of any training required
- Matching you to an available volunteering position
Whilst the role of volunteers within BISA may evolve over time, we currently operate three key areas of volunteer contribution to our work.
Volunteer Opportunities at BISA
Peer Mentor
People who have experienced brain injury make a unique and very special contribution to others at a much earlier point on their journey to recovery and acceptance. At BISA we involve peer supports in our group work, providing hope and support for people learning to adjust to change and understand the impact of their ABI. Working alongside therapy staff, Peer Support volunteers give additional insights to participants on managing their brain injury and finding solutions to the challenges they face.
Fundraising
Not an ongoing role, volunteers involved with our fundraising activities may come together for a fundraising event, assisting BISA undertake fundraising activities by donating time to complete a variety of tasks such as making phone calls, packing goods, staffing booths etc. They may bring fundraising ideas to BISA or promote fundraising campaigns to others outside the organisation.
Board Traineeship
A position appointed through application and selection by the Governance Sub Committee of the Board, the Board Trainee contributes their insights and experience of ABI to the Board through Board participation as a trainee. In return for their valuable time and knowledge, the Board trainee will gain experience in governance and contribute to directions taken by the organisation.
Note: Annual recruitment for this role is advertised by BISA.