Indigenous Community Volunteers

 

Frequently asked questions

Got a question that’s not answered here? Drop us a line at info@icv.com.au

Preparing to go...

How can I find out more about what to expect?
If you feel you would like more information about the area you are travelling to, or the actual project you are undertaking the best starting point is your project officer. Below are examples of some of the questions you could ask before leaving:

  • Is the accommodation sorted and what does it consist of. For example, are there cooking facilities and utensils available, or is there linen provided?
  • Who are the people identified to be trained and are they going to be available for training?
  • Are there any modifications to the original project?
  • What type of equipment is available for the project? For example, is there internet connection?
  • Will someone pick me up from the airport or air strip?
  • What sort of environmental factors should I be aware of? For example, build-up for the wet season, mozzies….
  • What about banking facilities such as ATM access?
  • Services on the community such as store and clinic.
  • Are there cultural aspects that I should be aware of that may have an impact on the project?
  • Do I have a cultural mentor?

 Can I make contact with the community before I go?
It’s not always possible but if you can it is great to have some contact with the community in the lead up to your project. It helps to build up the rapport and can also help you feel more confident about what to expect when you get there. Ask your project officer to arrange for the community to contact you.

What should I take?

  • Essential personal items such as medications, replacement of glasses or contact lenses, hearing aids, batteries, toiletries etc
  • Prepare to live a simple lifestyle – entertainment, food (prepare for any special dietary needs)
  • Items for your Leisure, books, journals, paints, musical instruments etc – this is a great opportunity for you to take up that hobby you’ve never had time too before.
  • A good idea is to take a small album of photographs of your family and where you came from – to help break the ice.
  • Appropriate clothing

Skills transfer…

What can I do if no one turns up for training?
Firstly don’t be alarmed. It takes time to establish yourself in the community. The key is to focus on relationship building. Speak with your community contact. Be aware of special cultural and sporting events that might be taking place.

What happens if I finish early or you want to extend?
Unexpected things do happen and changes o project timeframes have occurred in the past. If you feel there is a need to shorten or extend the duration speak with your community contact and your project officer.

Feeling confident in the community…

What if I don’t have all the expertise the community expects or I arrive and realise that my skills are insufficient to carry out projects well?
It’s not uncommon to have doubts about your ability to carry out the project. However the thing to remember is that most volunteers feel far more inadequate than the community perceives them to be. Don’t underestimate your skills, both those you have been specifically selected to share and all the additional skills you have to offer. Give yourself time to find your feet. If you are really are concerned first point of contact is always your project officer. They will be able help you assess the situation and make any recoomendations.

Family…

Can I bring my family?
ICV works with community/organisational projects community/organisation with by invitation. The volunteer is placed in the community to transfer skills. They are given support by a community identified cultural mentor and ICV, who monitor the project weekly. Any extra person in the community would require additional resources for this support. There have been some projects where communities have requested skills and, by chance, couples have both been able to participate in the required skills transfer. Any decision in this area would be at the discretion of the community.