National Volunteer Week 17 - 23 May 2021: Erin's Story

I started volunteering with Connecting Up in November 2017 while I was studying. At the time I was studying Business Administration at TAFE SA. I went on to further study Medical Administration, Accounting and Bookkeeping. I took an interest in volunteering at Connecting Up because I wanted hands on administration experience working in an office environment using some of the skills I had gained while studying.

I started by updating organisations on the the SA Community directory, using research skills to collect data and information via websites, phone calls and emails and inputing that data into the database. This gave me a lot of new skills using new software such as the CiviCRM (customer relationship management software) database, 3CX (softphone) and in general data entry using a standard information directory format and process.

Besides updating the directory I was able to utilise my skills in video editing and production to create and develop training modules and materials for new volunteers using Camtasia (video editing software). I have created instructional videos using this software that new volunteers have been able to use during their induction. I also took up the initiative to learn new skills and software with Canva (graphic design platform) and Power BI (data analysis software) updating Mid-Murray Council statistics and adding these new skills to my resume.

At the moment I am looking to gain employment within the accounts and administration field. Volunteering has given me vital skills within this field and has allowed me to put my knowledge and skills from studying into practice.

Eric Jenkins, Account Manager, Business Development Team, in the background is  former volunteer Samantha Whillas, now in the Customer Experience Team at the Connecting Up Conference

I have worked with a team of people that bring so many different skills to the table, including my mentor Eric Jenkins, Account Manager, Business Development Team, a former volunteer himself. Volunteering allows me to give back to my community, learn different types of software that I can add to my resume, use my creativity to design and produce creative content.
 

I have been able to use my critical thinking and problem solving skills to respond and resolve complex queries and assistance requests. I have enjoyed my time volunteering here and am excited to spend more time at Connecting Up.
 

[Editors Note: We are pleased to announce that Erin now works in administration in a government department as of 28 February 2022, congratulations Erin.]