Crystal Lee Foundation Seeks Compassionate Volunteers for Family Support Program in South West Victoria

Are you looking to make a real difference in your community? The Crystal Lee Foundation is currently seeking volunteers for our Family Support Program, offering a heartfelt opportunity to support families navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. This role is open to anyone aged 18 and over living in South West Victoria — and your compassion can provide hope when it’s needed most.

What the Family Support Program Involves

Our Family Support Program offers practical and emotional support to young people (from birth up to age 24) diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families. Volunteers help families feel less alone through thoughtful gestures such as:

• Organising fuel or grocery vouchers to ease travel and daily burdens

• Keeping children company to provide a mental break for caregivers

• Coordinating lawn mowing or household chores during treatment periods

• Helping create meaningful memories—such as photographs, planting trees, or crafts

• Simply having a cuppa and a conversation to offer emotional relief

• Assisting with small family breaks or comfort items like a Spotify subscription for hospital stays

Why Volunteers Are So Vital

Being a volunteer isn’t just a kind gesture — it's part of a life-changing support system. As Julienne Clifford, Foundation Executive Officer, highlighted in a local story:

“We are currently looking for additional volunteers for our family support service which provides practical and emotional support to young people and their families.”“Giving even a small amount of your time to others can have such big rewards – that may be as simple as sitting down with a cuppa and having a chat…” https://www.warrnamboolweekly.com.au/crystal-lees-legacy-continues-2023-08-11

What We Ask of Our Volunteers

To ensure the safety and quality of support, volunteers must:

• Be 18 years or older and live in South West Victoria

• Hold a current Working With Children Check and undergo a National Criminal Records Check

• Adhere to infection control guidelines, as many young oncology patients have suppressed immune systems

• Consistently maintain confidentiality and align with the Foundation’s compassionate values

The Foundation also supports volunteers with ongoing education and development to make sure you feel confident and equipped in your role.

How to Become a Volunteer

If you’re ready to lend an empathetic ear, offer practical help, or simply share a warm moment, here’s how to take the next step:

1. Download the Role Description from the Crystal Lee Foundation website’s Family Support page. This gives you a clear outline of what the role involves.

2. Reach out via email: contact the Executive Officer at eo@crystallee.org for more information or to express your interest.

3. Or call: simply reach out to the Foundation directly — they’ll guide you through the next steps and answer any questions you might have.

Why Your Help Matters

The Family Support Program is flexible and responsive, helping families whenever and however they need it. By volunteering:

• You offer invaluable emotional relief during overwhelming times

• You help families maintain some balance — letting them focus on what matters most

• You become part of a tight-knit team deeply rooted in community and compassion

Your time, empathy, and generosity help extend Crystal Lee’s legacy: turning bereavement and diagnosis into hope and connection.

Ready to Help?

Visit the Family Support section on our website or reach out by email at eo@crystallee.org to learn more. Whether it's sitting down for a chat or coordinating a small act of kindness, you can be the anchor a family needs today.