WA Seniors and Volunteering Minister Robyn McSweeney today attended the launch of an
innovative web and mobile phone application which will change the face of volunteering in Western Australia.
The new Big Help Mob app was developed with more than $575,000 State Government funding by not-for-profit group Useful Inc. and will connect volunteers with organisations needing help through social media.
Mrs McSweeney said the application had the potential to mobilise thousands of young volunteers throughout WA in a short period of time.
“This app is a fast and fun way of making young people aware of the volunteering opportunities available to them,” she said.
“More and more young people are becoming interested in volunteering and this is a great way to increase the long-term participation of young people in volunteering activities.”
The Big Help Mob received Government funding from the Social Innovation Grants program for three projects including the phone app, a training program for volunteers and a customer service system.
Not-for-profits can post their volunteer requests on the app, including location and the number of volunteers needed. Those interested can sign up for a ‘mission’ which is then posted on the user’s Facebook page and visible to their networks.
The app was launched this month at a wetland in Camillo, where volunteers had gathered to plant trees.
More info at http://www.bighelpmob.org
Applications for Social Innovation Grants can be made at any time Guidelines and application forms: http://www.communities.wa.gov.au