Cara Doherty has recently joined the friendly and compassionate team at RangeCare as the new Volunteer Coordinator. Cara brings with her over 15 years’ experience across a wide range of industries including; volunteers and local community engagement projects across the not-for-profit sector, local governments as well as overseas markets.
Cara sees volunteers as an essential element of a thriving community, and is grateful for the huge physical and financial contribution that volunteers make for RangeCare and the people that the organisation supports. To introduce Cara and to learn a little more about her we asked her a couple of questions. Please see her answers below;
Cara, can you please give me a little context into your working background?
“I have had a fairly varied working background, mostly working in community services as well as local and state governments. I also have experience working in international development. I have worked in roles which have included project coordination, community development and engagement, group facilitation and case work. This has included supporting children and young people, parents, families and community groups from a wide range of different backgrounds. I have also worked in Cambodia in a food relief agency for two years. In many of my working roles I have worked with and supported volunteers”.
What are three words that best describe you?
“Caring, approachable, curious”.
How did you hear about BRCG?
“Living locally on the range in Maleny. I had often seen RangeCare’s cars and buses driving around so that’s how I initially heard about the organisation! I then found out more information when the Volunteer Coordinator role was advertised”.
What attracted you to the role?
“Since moving to the area, I had always wanted to work in an organisation where I could support my local community. I also had a growing interest in the aged care sector and was keen to explore this further. This role with RangeCare seemed like the perfect opportunity for me! I also love the fact that I get to meet so many different people in this role”.
What have you enjoyed most about your brief time working at BRCG?
“I instantly felt welcomed and comfortable working at BRCG. I have also really enjoyed getting to meet some of our amazing volunteers, who are so generous with their time and energy”.
What has surprised you most about the role?
“The extent to which volunteers make the work of BRCG possible! We honestly couldn’t do what we do without them”.
What has surprised you most about the organisation?
“How responsive and accessible people are”.
What aspects of your role are you most looking forward to?
“I am looking forward to getting to know more of our volunteers (there are a lot!). I am also excited to explore new opportunities for our volunteers and clients, building on their diverse skills and interests”.
Cara is always happy to hear from new volunteers, and welcomes any new ideas and skills that can be brought to the team. You can call Cara on 07 5445 7044, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Alternatively, if you are interested in becoming a volunteer with RangeCare you can click here, to complete the online expression of interest form.