Our Inspiration

In 2001, inspired by the United Nations' declaration of the International Year of the Volunteer, communities around the world celebrated the spirit of volunteerism. This global movement ignited a spark in Busselton-Dunsborough, leading to local efforts to support and promote volunteering.

Community Commitment

Recognising the potential impact of a dedicated Volunteer Centre, the Shire of Busselton hosted a series of planning meetings in 2000. These meetings brought together passionate community members who saw the need for a central hub to support volunteers and organisations alike.

Laying the Foundation

A committed working party was formed, comprised of dedicated individuals from various sectors of the community. Their mission was clear: to establish a Volunteer Centre that would serve as a cornerstone for community engagement and support.

• Supporting Organisations: The working party identified the need to assist community organisations in recruiting, training, and managing volunteers. This support included developing volunteer policies and procedures.

• Helping Individuals: Another key function was to help individuals find meaningful volunteer roles that matched their skills and interests.

• Promoting Volunteerism: The importance of highlighting the value of volunteering was paramount, fostering a culture of giving back within the community.

Community Support and Launch

A survey conducted in the Busselton-Dunsborough region revealed overwhelming support for a Volunteer Centre. With this endorsement, the Department for Community Development stepped in with crucial financial support in August 2002. The Busselton Dunsborough Environment Centre (BDEC) generously agreed to sponsor and auspice the volunteer centre. The Busselton Dunsborough Environment Centre has continued their support of the volunteer centre for the last 21 years. They are a vibrant active organisation in our community. For more information, check out their website here.

Opening Our Doors

On June 28, 2003, the Busselton Dunsborough Volunteer Centre officially opened its doors. Since that day, we have steadily grown, continually expanding our services and support for volunteers and organisations.

Our Impact

Over the years, the Centre has facilitated countless volunteer placements, supported numerous community organisations, and celebrated the invaluable contributions of volunteers. Highlights of our journey include:

• Milestones and Achievements: With the support of our community, we’ve been involved in some major community projects and significant partnerships.

• Volunteer Stories: Hearing the heartwarming stories from our volunteers and the organisations they've helped, showcasing the real impact of our work.

• Community Events: We thrive on connecting people that uplift the community with the causes they are best matched to. Events like Thank a Volunteer Day and National Volunteer Week are always a highlight for us and integral to our ongoing commitment to celebrating volunteerism.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to grow, our commitment remains steadfast: to support, celebrate, and promote volunteering in Busselton-Dunsborough. We look forward to many more years of fostering a vibrant and engaged community!