She highlighted the mutual benefits of both volunteering and community engagement.
As a board member Mrs Fitzsimmons brought 20 years of retail industry accounting and business director experience to the organisation.
“I was a very green board member to start with and I was recruited because I have financial skills but also had an interest.”
Her connection to VIVID was personal, with a family member's future linked to the organisation.
“My role, probably in the first years, really was learning, learning lots, learning wherever I could apply my skills,” she said.
VIVID operates across northern Victoria, with locations in Echuca, Kerang, Swan Hill and Kyabram, providing tailored disability support services.
The organisation's values centre on growth, innovation, respect and integrity, teamwork, and fun.
“As a volunteer there was learning about governance on a board, learning about the community that VIVID works and operates in and the number of people that are involved in that community,” Mrs Fitzsimmons said.
“I mean, it is gigantic, more people are involved than you think there are.”
Volunteers are welcome in various capacities across all the services VIVID offers, including board member roles and seasonal opportunities such as Christmas gift wrapping stations.
“Absolutely, I would recommend volunteering with VIVID,” Mrs Fitzsimmons said.
“Because VIVID is a community-based somewhat large operation with the ultimate aim of assisting people to have their best lives.”
Volunteers receive initial training and ongoing support from the volunteer co-ordinator and trained VIVID staff.
Many volunteers have transitioned into paid employment with the organisation.
If you would like to volunteer with We are VIVID, reach out to the volunteer co-ordinator by phoning 03 5480 6611, or email volunteer@wearevivid.com.au
For more information, visit www.wearevivid.org.au and click the ‘Get Involved’ tab.
17°C