Volunteering with DRA is like being part of a massive family who share the same values and have very similar back stories.
It’s amazing to be able to work with likeminded people who understand life’s difficult circumstances yet come together for a greater cause within our community.
Weather you can deploy for full weeks or help with in-house taskings, there is plenty of work that will not only change the lives of the people you are helping, but your own too.
I spent 10 years in the RAAF. Half as a Military Working Dog Handler then re-mustered to Firefighter for my remaining time. Not long after I left the RAAF, I heard about DRA though a fellow member.
During my time volunteering with DRA, I was able to chat to some community members who have been helped by fellow volunteers. I did not think much of it at the time but listening to how they were impacted by the event, then how much of a difference DRA has made to their ability to start moving forward, blew my mind. Something as small as helping build a playground set for the kids, just to see them smile and give the parents time to tackle their tasks ahead, made a huge difference.
I would highly recommend joining DRA, even if you can only volunteer a couple of hours a month. The difference that can be made will be astonishing. Whether you are deploying out in the field or helping with back of house tasks like stocktake or making phone calls, every little bit counts. You will be part of an amazing team spreading a ray of sunshine to help others through some of their darkest days.
Mel.