VOLUNTEER WITH US
Would you like to volunteer with The Footpath Library?
By generously giving your time, you’ll meet like-minded people, do something different and help create a safe and welcoming space for people experiencing homelessness.
Our mobile libraries in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia operate thanks to passionate people who want to make a difference. See where you can volunteer.
What to expect as a volunteer
As a volunteer you'll give out books, reading glasses, knitted goods and cheerful conversation.
Most mobile libraries operate for an hour or two, once a week or once a month.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or feel free to get in touch.
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Most mobile libraries operate for about an hour or two. However, your state program manager can provide more specific times.
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That’s up to you. Many people choose to volunteer once a month. However, it depends on your availability and the number of volunteers already attached to each mobile library.
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We understand that you might like to come along and see how things work before you decide whether to volunteer regularly.
If you do decide to become a volunteer we request a six-month commitment.
However, most of our volunteers really enjoy the experience and tend to become very passionate about it. Some have been doing it for 13 years!
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If you decide to volunteer regularly, we do ask that you read several documents about homelessness.
We also highly recommend Lifeline’s Accidental Counsellor course. This only takes 3.5 hours and can be done by Zoom. The costs of attending the course will be covered by The Footpath Library. The course helps volunteers recognise when someone is struggling, and offers training on how to respond with confidence and know when to refer them to more support.
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Not only will you be creating a safe and welcoming space for people experiencing homelessness, but you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded people.
Volunteering has been shown, time and again, to improve wellbeing. Our volunteers often tell us they believe they get more out of volunteering than they give.
What our volunteers say…
“I volunteer with my son, Chris. I retired a couple of years ago and wanted to give back. There’s some fantastic characters. We have some really good conversations - and it’s really inspiring.”
— Steve
“The same people come back week after week, and it’s a privilege to get to know them and their story. I love going along and seeing the regulars. It’s a huge part of why I love it, it’s a community. I find it rewarding.”
— Kelly-Anne