In 2024, Tomorrow Today has more than 80 active volunteers who contribute right across the spectrum of the Foundation’s work.
Tomorrow Today’s Executive Officer Jodie Fleming said she is well aware of just how important volunteers are to the organisation.
“Volunteers are the backbone of community organisations like ours,” Ms Fleming said.
“Without them, we would not be able to deliver programs for Benalla’s families, children and young people.”
When Sabine Smyth was recruited by Tomorrow Today back in 2011 it was as its Volunteer Program coordinator.
During her six years at the Foundation, she instigated Connect9, where a Year 9 student is matched with a local, adult mentor for a ten-week structured program.
The program aims to connect participants with clubs, volunteering, other students, work and career opportunities and helps them to build aspiration and inspire them for their future.
In 2024, Sabine returned to Tomorrow Today to volunteer as a Connect9 mentor.
“I’ve wanted to come back as a volunteer for a while, but there’s never been a good time until now,” Ms Smythe said.
“I just thought I would put my hand up, although I'm a bit concerned that I'm probably one of the oldest; all the other mentors are younger in this program.
“But I have really missed working with teenagers. I love that phase in their life where they're just saying, ‘I'm looking at the world to work out where I fit and what I want to do.’
“I'm almost like a grandparent, and I think that is a very benign presence in a young life, a totally non-threatening, positive, supportive presence.
“I'm just loving being matched with my mentee, she is quite amazing in the way she is focused on what she wants to do, and she's really keen to explore it.
“So, I've struck on someone who's really quiet, but also very passionate, and I'm loving it.”
Geoff Hill is a local accountant who volunteers with Tomorrow Today as a member of its Foundation’s Audit Committee.
He has been involved with Tomorrow Today since its inception in the early 2000s.
“I had a strong desire to put back into the Benalla community and Benalla’s youth so Tomorrow Today was a logical choice for me,” Mr Hill said.
“The committee meets twice a year and helps to provide appropriate governance.
“I love the work Tomorrow Today does with youth in Benalla and I enjoy being able to use my knowledge and subject expertise to help the Foundation to continue to serve the Benalla community.”
Kathy Ellis-Ragg has been a volunteer in some capacity ever since her daughter was very young.
Every year she chooses a different program or organisation to volunteer with.
She has volunteered with Tomorrow Today as a Connect9 Mentor, as well as assisting with the establishment of Benalla’s Aboriginal Garden.
In 2023, Kathy was a Kinder Pal at Ride Ave Kinder.
“I took a bag of books with me each week and the children would choose a book for me to read with them,” Ms Ellis-Ragg said.
“Or I might be involved in other activities the children were doing.
“What I enjoyed most about it was the connection with the children.
“At three and four years old, they are spontaneous and open to learning. It’s not hard to remember what it was like to be their age.
“My advice to anyone is to give it a go – volunteering is very rewarding – even though you’re giving, you’re actually getting a lot back too. You gain new skills and grow as a person.”
Ms Fleming extended her thanks to many people who volunteer at Tomorrow Today
“This National Volunteer Week, I want to acknowledge the incredibly valuable contribution our volunteers make,” she said.
“Our work is only possible because of their generosity. They selflessly share their time, knowledge and skills to help make Benalla a better place for everyone.”
If you would like to find out more about volunteering with Tomorrow Today you can contact them on 5762 1211 or visit www.tomorrowtoday.com.au/volunteer.
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