Volunteers are the heartbeat of our community, providing essential support and enriching the lives of those around them. As we prepare to celebrate National Volunteer Week (20 to 26 May), we're shining a spotlight on the remarkable volunteers of Yarra and their invaluable contributions.

There truly is something for everyone in the world of volunteering, and we hope these stories inspire you to explore the many volunteer opportunities available in Yarra.

Steven’s Story

For nearly a decade, Steven has been volunteering as a mentor supervising driver in Yarra’s L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program.

As a mentor driver, Steven helps disadvantaged youth gain the driving experience needed to apply for a probationary licence.

What made you want to volunteer?

“I’ve always had the philosophy – if you’re fortunate enough to have the opportunity to give back, go for it.”

Steven had often driven past the Fitzroy L2P car and wondered what the program was, thinking maybe I could give that a try.

“Fortunately, one day I did get around to making the call!”

What do you love about volunteering at Yarra’s L2P Program?

“For a young person, getting their driver’s licence is a huge thing. All they want is to get a job and contribute, but so often they’ll get a job and be told to come back once they have a driver’s licence.”

“I still remember my first learner driver, she went on to do her master's degree, which is an incredible achievement. I like to think that getting her licence helped her to continue her studies.”

“Being a mentor driver is a small, easy thing to do that can really make a big difference to someone’s life.”

What has volunteering brought to your life?

“People often say these nice things – that you get back more than you give – in my case, it’s 100% true. I gain more than what I contribute.”

“There’s nothing like meeting people from different backgrounds – they have the same hopes and dreams as us. Like all of us, they just want a better life for themselves and their children.”

“The learner drivers I’ve mentored in L2P have been wonderful. I cannot speak highly enough of them. They’re really such nice people, who just want to have a chance to contribute.”

“I find it a privilege that I’ve been able to help them.”

Any advice for people looking to volunteer?

“Just give it a go. You may find it really rewarding. I would encourage people to do it.”

“You might have to try several things. I tried three or four things before I landed on the L2P Program. You’ve just got to open a lot of doors. If one door closes, open another one!”

Yarra City Council will deliver the TAC L2P program until 30 June, 2024. As of 1 July 2024, The Salvation Army, will commence delivery of the TAC L2P program to young people and volunteers in Yarra. The Salvation Army have a strong history of volunteer coordination and delivery of youth programs. For more information contact the program Manager, Stephen Harvy at [email protected].

For more information on volunteering in Yarra, visit our website.