Essendon Community Legal Centre

Volunteers

The Essendon Community Legal Centre encourages local people to become involved with the Centre. We have many legal and non-legal volunteers who help run the Centre.

Through the involvement of volunteers the Centre has been able to maintain its commitment to involving people in solving their own legal problems. Hundreds of locals have enthusiastically committed their time and brought their skills and knowledge of local issues and resources to the Centre.

The Centre has involved volunteers in all aspects of its service. Non-legal volunteers coordinate our legal advice and referral services, and provide invaluable local knowledge and backup for the solicitors and clients. In addition, people attending these sessions are seen by both legal and non-legal volunteers. This approach recognises that so-called "legal problems" often require more than just a legal solution. For example, women and children escaping domestic violence may need alternative housing, financial assistance and individual support services. Our non-legal volunteers also ensure that advice is given in a clear and accessible language.

Volunteers are also involved in the Management Committee, which has responsibility for the employment of workers, finances, priorities and community education. Their involvement in the casework gives them an insight into planning and community legal education projects.
Volunteers also represent the Centre at information stalls at local community festivals, talks and seminars, and help the Centre to produce booklets etc.

Volunteering is popular and practical. Law students and graduates gain expertise and knowledge. Many of our volunteer lawyers comment that it is an opportunity to work with people - and not just the law! Volunteers pick up skills and knowledge that assist them in other areas of their lives. Our volunteers make an important contribution to Moonee Valley and surrounding communities.