Give A Little: Why You Should Volunteer This Christmas

‘Tis the season for giving—and we’re not just talking about gift-wrapped presents. This Christmas, consider giving something even more meaningful: your time.

While holiday donations help fund vital programs, volunteers are the heartbeat of many organisations across Australia. Whether you’re delivering meals, keeping animals company, or offering a friendly face to those spending the holidays alone, your time can make a powerful difference.

Paying It Forward: One Woman’s Story

Lisa Cox knows firsthand the importance of compassion during the holidays. After spending over a year hospitalised at age 24—including Christmas—she now returns to that very hospital each year to spread cheer to current patients.

“I have a moral responsibility to ‘pay it forward,’” she says. “Making a stranger smile means more to me than any material gift. I’ve been doing this for years, and I still believe in it just as strongly.”

Volunteering Opportunities Are Everywhere

Volunteer Narelle Lee encourages Aussies to look around their own communities. She’s been involved in delivering food hampers, supporting bushfire relief, and lending a hand wherever she can. Her message is clear:

“There’s always something to do—not just at Christmas, but all year round,” says Lee. “Helping others is one of the best ways to build connection and purpose.”

Don’t Forget Our Furry Friends

Each year, organisations like the RSPCA and Animal Aid deal with a heartbreaking surge in surrendered animals after the holidays. Over 13,500 pets are expected to enter care nationally between November and January alone.

Animal Aid’s Debra Borland says the support of Christmas volunteers is essential. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our shelters,” she explains. “We are so grateful to the people who give up part of their Christmas to feed, walk, and care for animals who don’t have a family to share the day with.”

Ways to Volunteer This Holiday Season

Whether you have a few hours or a few days, there’s a role to suit your schedule, passions, and skills. Here are just a few organisations offering Christmas volunteer opportunities:

• GoVolunteer – Australia-wide listings for volunteer jobs in your local area
• Volunteering Australia – National peak body for volunteering opportunities and info
• The Salvation Army – Join Christmas meal services, gift drives, and more
• St Vincent de Paul Society – Help with food deliveries, companionship visits, and social programs
• Animal Aid – Support animal welfare efforts during the holidays

Start Giving Back—Your Time Matters

Volunteering this Christmas is a meaningful way to bring joy to others—and to yourself. Whether you’re helping humans or animals, your time can make someone’s holiday a little brighter.

Want to turn your passion for helping into a career? Explore our range of flexible community services and aged care courses to start your journey.