African Youth Collective
AYC community volunteers gathered together

Get Involved

Volunteer with AYC

Show up. Make a difference. Belong.

African Youth Collective runs on the energy, skills, and heart of our volunteers. Whether you want to help at a BBQ, mentor young people, support programs, or bring your professional skills — there is a place for you here.

Why It Matters

Why Volunteer with AYC?

Volunteering with AYC is more than giving your time — it is joining a community that is changing lives. Here is what our volunteers tell us.

Real Community Impact

Your presence directly supports African youth and families in Melbourne's western suburbs — building the connection and belonging that keeps people well.

Culturally Grounded

AYC is led by and for the African community. Volunteering here means working in a space that honours African culture, identity, and values.

Grow Your Skills

From event coordination to mentoring, community outreach to program delivery — volunteering with AYC builds real, transferable skills.

Flexible Commitment

We work around your schedule. Whether you can give a few hours a week or one day a month, there is a role that fits your life.

Be Part of Something Bigger

AYC is a movement — rooted in the B-MAD prevention framework and driven by a vision of thriving African communities across Melbourne.

Build Lasting Friendships

Our volunteers become part of the AYC family. Many of our strongest community bonds have started through volunteering.

Ways to Contribute

Volunteer Roles

There are many ways to contribute — from hands-on program support to behind-the-scenes help. Here are some of the ways our volunteers get involved.

The Process

How to Get Started

Joining the AYC volunteer team is straightforward. Here is what to expect.

01

Get in Touch

Fill in the contact form below or reach out directly. Tell us a little about yourself and what kind of volunteering interests you.

02

Have a Chat

We will get back to you for a brief conversation — to understand your interests, availability, and how we can best match you to a role.

03

Get Onboarded

We will walk you through AYC's values, programs, and any relevant training or checks required for your role.

04

Show Up & Belong

Start volunteering, meet the community, and become part of the AYC family. We will support you every step of the way.

Safeguarding & Compliance

All Volunteers & Staff Must Be Cleared

AYC is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every young person and community member we serve. Before commencing any role — paid or voluntary — all individuals must hold current, valid clearances and complete the required documentation.

Mandatory

Working with Children Check (WWCC)

A current Victorian Working with Children Check (Employee or Volunteer card) is mandatory for all roles involving contact with people under 18. Apply through Service Victoria.

Mandatory

National Police Criminal History Check

A National Police Check (no older than 12 months) is required for all volunteers and staff. AYC can assist with the application process through an approved provider.

Required

Volunteer Agreement & Code of Conduct

All volunteers must read, sign, and return the AYC Volunteer Agreement and Code of Conduct before their first shift. These documents outline expectations, confidentiality, and safeguarding responsibilities.

Required

Identity Verification

Two forms of current photo ID (e.g. passport, driver's licence, or Medicare card) must be provided and verified by the AYC coordinator before commencing.

Required

Safeguarding & Child Safety Induction

All new volunteers and staff complete a mandatory AYC safeguarding induction covering child safety, reporting obligations, and appropriate conduct with young people.

Required

Emergency Contact & Health Declaration

Volunteers must provide an emergency contact and complete a brief health declaration form so AYC can respond appropriately in any incident or emergency.

Need help with your clearances?

Our team can guide you through the WWCC and Police Check application process. Contact us at [email protected] or call 0456 749 869.

AYC volunteers and community members together

Volunteering is B-MAD Prevention in Action

Every hour you give as an AYC volunteer is a direct contribution to our B-MAD prevention framework — building the connection, culture, and belonging that protects African youth from mental health challenges, alcohol, and drugs.

Learn about B-MAD

Ready to Volunteer?

Get in touch and we will find the right role for you. No experience necessary — just a willingness to show up and be part of the community.

Contact AYC