Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Caring Hands Day, Community Care, Community Connect, Community Hub, Community Support, Quality, Refer a friend, Volunteering

At Southcare, community isn’t just something we talk about — it’s something we build together, every single day, and during National Volunteer Week (18–24 May 2026), we’re inviting you to be part of that story.

This year’s theme, “Your Year to Volunteer,” couldn’t be more relevant. Because right now, our community needs connection, compassion and practical support more than ever — and volunteers are at the heart of making that happen.

Why Southcare needs you 

For more than 40 years, Southcare has been supporting people, from older Australians wanting to stay connected, to individuals and families navigating challenging times.

But here’s what makes our story different:  We began as a volunteer-led organisation. And volunteers are still at the heart of everything we do.

Today, our volunteers:

  • Support people experiencing hardship through emergency relief
  • Help run our opportunity shop, funding vital community programs
  • Assist behind the scenes in office roles to keep services running smoothly
  • Run activities to reduce social isolation via our Community Connect program

Make this your year to volunteer 

“Your Year to Volunteer” isn’t just a slogan. It responds to a changing landscape in Australia where:

  • People are busier than ever
  • Traditional long-term volunteering is declining
  • Communities are facing growing social and economic pressures

The benefits of volunteering

The 2026 campaign encourages Australians to rethink volunteering—not as a lifelong commitment, but as something flexible, accessible, and achievable.

Even a few hours can create a meaningful impact.

It also highlights the personal benefits of volunteering, including:

  • Improved mental wellbeing
  • Stronger social connections
  • A greater sense of purpose

In short, volunteering helps both the community and the individual.

Why volunteering is more vital than ever 

National Volunteer Week 2026 arrives at a time when demand for support is rising across Australia.

  • Addressing social isolation: As the population ages, loneliness is becoming a growing concern. Volunteers can play a critical role in providing companionship and connection.
  • Supporting communities under pressure: With the rising cost of living, more individuals and families are turning to community organisations for help. Volunteers enable these organisations to expand their reach and continue delivering essential services.
  • Adapting to modern lifestyles: Today’s volunteers are looking for flexibility. Micro-volunteering, short-term roles, and skill-based contributions are becoming more common—making it easier for people to get involved in ways that suit their lives.

Why this is your year to volunteer

If you’ve ever thought about getting involved—whether in aged care volunteer work, community service volunteer opportunities, or simply giving back locally, 2026 is the ideal time to start.
National Volunteer Week is not just about recognition. It’s about momentum.

It’s about turning intention into action.  It’s about recognising that:

  • You don’t need a lot of time to make a difference
  • You don’t need special qualifications to get started
  • You just need the willingness to show up

Be part of something bigger at Southcare

For Southcare, National Volunteer Week is more than a celebration. It’s a reflection of who we are – and an invitation to you to join in.

Whether it’s supporting older Australians, helping families through difficult times, or simply offering a friendly face, volunteers continue to shape stronger, more connected communities across South Perth.
In 2026, that contribution matters more than ever.

Make this your year to volunteer.

About Southcare

Southcare is a trusted, registered aged care provider in Perth, providing personalised in-home aged care services, community support and community connect programs that empower older adults to live their best life at home. Whether you’re seeking everyday assistance or specialised support at home, our caring hands and golden hearts are here when you need them most.  It’s your care, your way.

Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Caring Hands Day, Community Care, Community Connect, Community Hub, Community Support, Quality, Refer a friend, Volunteering