Welcome to the first Grant Round Up for 2025. Volunteers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds make an important contribution to Tasmania’s vibrant volunteering community.
Engaging with CALD volunteers brings many benefits to your organisation, including widening the pool of potential volunteers, bringing new perspectives and skills, promoting diversity and raising cultural awareness, and strengthening positive relationships with the local community. Many organisations would like to involve volunteers from diverse cultures but may feel uncertain about where to begin or how to ensure meaningful engagement.
Here are some practical strategies to ensure CALD volunteers feel welcomed and valued in your organisation:
Be respectful
- Be curious and listen to volunteers’ stories, challenges, and strengths.
- Use clear, everyday language, avoiding jargon or assumptions.
- Acknowledge the rich experiences and abilities they bring.
- Have open conversations about needs and preferences—everyone’s journey is unique.
Be flexible
- Consider mentorship programs or extra guidance where needed.
- Understand that CALD communities face varying challenges, from language barriers to unfamiliar systems.
- Align tasks with their abilities, interests, and availability.
Be inclusive
- Provide a safe space for volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
- Increase diversity within your team to reflect the broader community.
- Involve CALD volunteers in decision-making and leadership opportunities.
- Encourage contributions from those who can offer unique insights based on their cultural background.
Consider cultural competency training
- Provide cultural competency training for staff, especially those who engage with stakeholders and frontline staff.
- Enlist the services of translators such as the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
When you engage CALD volunteers with respect, flexibility, and inclusivity, you don’t just make room for diversity—you celebrate it. If you would like more information, please contact the Community Development Team—Chris, Leigh, Melissa, and Megan—at 6429 8900