Amale: Taking ownership of her volunteering role

Volunteering is more than just following instructions—it is about taking initiative, creating impact, and fostering inclusion. Amale, a dedicated volunteer at Wintringham’s Delahey Social Housing Community, is a perfect example of this.

Amale is sitting at the table with 4 of the Arabic residents at Delahey Social Housing Community having their morning tea.

In September 2024, Volunteer West connected Amale with Wintringham, where she began supporting Arabic-speaking residents in learning English and engaging socially. By February 2025, when we came to visit Amale, we were amazed at how she had created not just an English practice group but a safe, welcoming space where residents felt heard, valued, and connected.

Taking Initiative: A Letter That Opened Doors

When Amale noticed that some residents were hesitant to join, she didn’t just accept it—she took action. Encouraged by staff, she wrote a letter in Arabic to personally invite residents, helping them feel comfortable and included. Her proactive approach transformed engagement, increasing participation and strengthening community ties.

“I wanted them to know they are not alone,” Amale shared. “There are people here who speak their language, who have also integrated and built better lives for themselves. I want them to see that they can do the same.”

Setting Boundaries for a Positive Space

Amale also recognised that some discussions could become divisive, particularly around politics. To ensure a respectful and uplifting atmosphere, she set clear boundaries—political debates were off-limits.

Instead, she encouraged conversations that brought people together, such as: “What is your positive impression of Australia?”

By steering discussions towards shared experiences, she helped create a harmonious environment where residents felt safe, respected, and engaged.

Your Voice Matters

Many volunteers think their role is limited to following directions, but as Amale’s experience shows, volunteers can play an active role in shaping and improving programs. If you see an opportunity for improvement, have a conversation with your Volunteer Coordinator. Through collaboration and open discussion, your ideas can enhance engagement, foster inclusivity, and create a more meaningful impact in your community.

Watch this short video below to get a quick glimpse of Amale and her program.