We recently posted our mid term report, highlighting some of the challenges we face when it comes to making a match.
In particular, we provided a detailed breakdown of Sydney and the respective numbers of buddies, volunteers and matches we have within each area (below).
We’re eager to address the imbalance and, as such, we have decided to implement a temporary halt on volunteer applications from people based in the Inner West.
As per the map, within the Inner West we currently have 145 unmatched volunteers. While we have paired up 28, we want to ensure that those still waiting are prioritised.
What are we doing about it?
We are making efforts to engage with potential buddies based within the Inner West.
Last Friday (2/8) gig buddy Tim and I appeared on 2.ser 107.3FM (below), not only talking about this very challenge, but the project as a whole. During our interview we made a plea for people with mild to moderate learning disabilities based within the Inner West to make contact with us.
Furthermore, in addition to Friday’s radio interview, we are making contact with disability providers based within the area, and we’re also waiting on the release of a couple of news stories we’ve put together with the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency). We’re also continuing with our Inner West hub, connecting with potential participants.
If you’d like to hear more from Tim and myself, click here to listen to Friday’s interview.
What happens now?
To those looking to sign up as Gig Buddies Sydney volunteer, we have now added the following message to our online application.
As mentioned, this is a temporary decision. An announcement will be made when we’re ready to resume receiving applications from Inner West based volunteers’.
The here and now….
In other news, last Monday (29/7) we held another volunteer training session - thanks to Jaysal, Jennifer, Ed and Bek (below, L - R) for coming in.
And since our last update we've also made two new pairings: step forward Jade and Joni (below left, L - R) and Ella and Rachel (below right, L - R).
Welcome to the Gig Buddies Sydney family, we look forward to hearing about your forthcoming adventures and seeing you at a future social event.
Matthew Collins
Gig Buddies Sydney Community Engagement Coordinator
matt@assistcom.org
Would you like more information about Gig BuddiesSydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
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The Gig Buddies Sydney project is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.