Content components The Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre (BVRC) has been at the heart of community volunteering for over 30 years. Established in response to the growing need for volunteer support and coordination, the BVRC continues to connect individuals with meaningful opportunities, fostering a thriving culture of volunteerism in Boroondara.The beginningIn November 1991, 29 volunteer organisations in the City of Camberwell met to discuss the need for greater support in managing and promoting local volunteer programs. A program was adopted to promote and develop volunteer activities with local community groups. In 1992, the Camberwell Volunteer Network was established and managed by a Special Committee.In 1994, the Cities of Camberwell, Kew and Hawthorn amalgamated to become the City of Boroondara. The network was renamed the Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre (BVRC) and relocated to Camberwell Town Hall.In 1996, the BVRC relocated to Chambly House in Camberwell with an expanded team of staff and several regular volunteers.In 2002, the Special Committee was replaced by a new Advisory Committee and the BVRC became a core service of Council.In 2012, the Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre moved to its current location inside our Council offices at 8 Inglesby Road, Camberwell.Our impact and reachThe BVRC is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse volunteer community. Our free services connect volunteers with organisations, ensuring accessible opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities. We also support local organisations in building inclusive, well-managed programs that enhance community engagement. By breaking down barriers to volunteering, we empower everyone to contribute meaningfully and help create a stronger, more connected community. Expand all Collapse all 2024–2025 Key impact figures 2,026 prospective volunteers were assisted to find meaningful volunteer opportunities. Of these prospective volunteers 69% were female, 44% were from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background, 33% were students and 10% were aged over 60.772 skilled professionals registered to volunteer their skills with the Boroondara Volunteer Skills Bank.2,918 role referrals were made through the centre’s volunteer portal, phone or face-to-face appointments with clients.3,897 expressions of interest were received for volunteer roles promoted on behalf of local volunteer-involving organisations and council volunteer programs.11 workshops were delivered to volunteers and volunteer leaders to strengthen their knowledge and skills in their respective roles, with 268 attendances across all sessions.6 Volunteer Leader Network Meetings (online and in-person) were held, with 161 attendees across all meetings.13 council-run volunteer programs supported the community with 345 active volunteers.400-plus local organisations were supported through BVRC membership.450 attendees and 39 community organisations attended the annual Boroondara Volunteer Expo in March 2025.BVRC delivered other events, including the International Volunteer Managers Day Online Forum, ‘Journey to Impact’ pop up for International Volunteer Day and National Volunteer Week celebration to announce the Boroondara Volunteer Awards recipients.BVRC participated in 36 pop-up stalls, presentations and talks to raise awareness of its service and connect people with volunteering opportunities. 2023–2024 Key impact figures 1,856 prospective volunteers were assisted to find meaningful volunteer opportunities. Of these prospective volunteers, 69% were female, 44% were from a CALD background, 30% were students, and 9.6% were aged over 60.758 skilled professionals registered to volunteer their skills with the Boroondara Volunteer Skills Bank.A total of 2,672 role referrals were facilitated through the BVRC’s volunteer portal.4,065 expressions of interest were received for volunteer roles promoted on behalf of local volunteer-involving organisations and Council volunteer programs.12 workshops were delivered to volunteers and volunteer leaders to strengthen their knowledge and skills in their respective roles with a total of 133 attendances recorded across all sessions.5 Volunteer Leader Network Meetings were run with a total of 157 attendees across all meetings.14 Council-run volunteer programs supporting the community with 353 active volunteers.350+ local organisations supported through BVRC membership.
