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21-May-2026 | Events

Happy National Volunteer Week!

This National Volunteer Week, we’re celebrating the incredible volunteers and placement students who generously give their time, skills and energy to support others across SYC.

Since 1958, volunteers have played an important role in SYC’s story. Founded in Adelaide as the Service to Youth Council, SYC was built on the passion and commitment of volunteers who came together to support disadvantaged young people in the community. More than 65 years later, that spirit of giving back remains at the heart of who we are.

Today, volunteers continue to play an important role across our organisation. Over the past year alone, SYC volunteers have contributed more than 4,000 hours across our programs and services, making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people and communities we work alongside.

This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, ‘Your Year to Volunteer’, highlights the power of local action and the positive impact volunteering can have, not only on the people being supported but on volunteers themselves.

We asked some of our volunteers and placement students to reflect on their experiences at SYC.

Bella, Volunteer at The Foundry by SYC, shared how volunteering has allowed her to support young people while also growing personally and professionally.

“I volunteer as a youth support volunteer because I genuinely enjoy making a positive difference in young people’s lives. I’m passionate about supporting young people, helping them feel heard, and creating a safe and encouraging environment where they can grow and build confidence. I really value being part of SYC. It’s a fantastic organisation that has helped me grow both personally and professionally. My time at The Foundry has taught me a great deal and I’m grateful for the experience. I really enjoy the work itself and being part of such a supportive and encouraging team.”

Jasnoor, also a Volunteer at The Foundry by SYC, reflected on the value of contributing to something bigger than herself.

“Being involved has been such a meaningful experience, and I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the team. I really value my time here and the experiences I continue to gain through volunteering.”

For placement student Bruna, the experience provided insight into working alongside young people.

“Placement has been a great opportunity to engage with young people, develop my practical skills, and connect theory with practice in a supportive environment. This placement has helped me better understand the complexities behind youth experiences, especially around housing instability and wellbeing, while strengthening my ability to respond with empathy and a person-centred approach.”

Reflections like these are a reminder that volunteering is about more than giving time. It’s about connection, learning, compassion and creating positive change within our communities.

To every volunteer and placement student who has contributed their time and skills to SYC, thank you. Your dedication helps strengthen our programs, support people and create opportunities for others every day.

SYC would also like to acknowledge and thank some of our recent volunteers and placement students: Amber, Ava, Bella, Bruna, Caitlyn, Holly, Jared, Jasnoor, Justina, Kay, Max, Sally, Stephy, Sue, Tiana and Vas.

Happy National Volunteer Week!

If you or someone you know is interested in joining our incredible community of volunteers, we'd love to hear from you. Get in touch with our team and learn more here.