About

• ABOUT US The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity. We are seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to serve as Volunteer Program Assistants for our Café and Catering Programs at the Tom Quinn Community Centre. In this role, you will have the unique opportunity to work alongside young people as they gain valuable skills in the food service industry, fostering personal and professional growth. The Café & Catering Program Assistant provides support and assistance to the Team Leader in group activities for youth. Program Assistants are key in supporting the practical and social needs of community members attending the Tom Quinn Community Centre. Key responsibilities • Foster a supportive and inclusive environment within the café and catering programs Assist in café and catering activities, including food preparation, service, and customer interactions. Provide guidance on hygiene standards, culinary skills, and customer service etiquette. Encourage active participation and teamwork among program participants. With the support and guidance of the Program Leader, assist in the facilitation of the activities, ensuring a supportive and caring environment for all participants. Assist with managing group dynamics to ensure full enjoyment of the activity and respond to individual needs as needed. Support the development of practical life skills such as time management and teamwork. Promote a positive work ethic and professionalism in the kitchen and service areas. Encourage self-expression and open communication within the group. Assist with the packing away of furniture and equipment and kitchen clean up. Engage in confidential debrief on activity with the Program Leader, recording any concerns and follow ups with individuals. Qualifications and skills (desired/required) Enthusiasm for food service and a willingness to share food and café knowledge and skills. Empathy and Patience: Ability to understand and connect with young individuals facing challenges. Patient and compassionate approach to mentorship. Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with participants and customers. Experience working with youth is highly regarded. Background check requirements Background checks play an important part in our commitment to being a safe organisation. Where an applicant has disclosable history, the selection process includes a fair assessment and a risk management approach. Collection of personal information is handled per our privacy and confidentiality policies. Below is what is required for this role: As this role is a child-related role, it requires a Working with Children Check/Working with Vulnerable People Check As this role is Working with Vulnerable People it requires a Police Check Development opportunities with this role: This role will give volunteers an opportunity to develop skills and build experience in group facilitation and administration The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child related roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Additionally, certain volunteer roles may require a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check. Volunteer with the Salvos It takes an army of volunteers to provide and enable practical care for Australians every year. Volunteers bring life to our values of integrity, compassion, respect, diversity and collaboration. We are always looking for individuals to bring fresh energy and ideas to a range of volunteer roles. Whatever your skillset, availability or areas of interest, you may surprise yourself with the different ways you can make a difference. Volunteering is an invitation to demonstrate care for others in our local communities; it is the everyday embodiment of love in action. Those who give up their time so freely are some of the greatest contributors and advocates of Salvation Army mission and vision. It is through working alongside one another that transformation is possible. Not only do we focus on the transformative experience of service recipients and local communities, but also of our volunteers. The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by: Caring for people Creating faith pathways Building healthy communities Working for justice When you volunteer with the Salvos, you help make a real difference to the community and the lives of others. Find more information here. Check out how we’re bringing some more good in the world. The Salvation Army offers a range of opportunities to build your connections, including those in community programs, aged care, retail, employment services, corporate and other support services. When you choose the Salvos, you choose to believe in doing good that transforms the lives of people and communities facing hardship or crisis. So, if you are passionate about volunteering that has purpose and satisfaction, are keen on delivering social and sustainable outcomes that change lives, we want to hear from you. We are always on the lookout for individuals keen to help us fulfil mission to support those in need. Whatever your skillset, availability, or areas of interest, we are keen to hear from you. Check out our Careers Site here.