"Everything that you achieve for a (community) group is greatly appreciated and their thanks is profuse. You don't often get that in the private sector!"

My occupation: Writer / Fundraising / Communications / Media

My responsibilities: I have my own business, Profile Consulting, providing the above opportunities to the not for profit space so I'm the chief cook and bottle-washer, so to speak.

What inspired me to get involved in skilled volunteering: I spent eight years working for former Prime Minister, John Howard and was constantly in awe of the volunteers and community organisations that I met with as the PM toured around Australia. They were ordinary people with incredible passions hence I joined the not for profit sector myself. I realised that my skills might also be of use to smaller not for profit organisations and I had a professional duty and a personal desire to help them.

Which organisations have I fulfilled volunteer projects for: I have helped goodcompany with submission writing for the Butterfly Foundation; Abbotsford Convent, and the Australian Leukodystrophy Support Group (ALDS) in Mentone in Victoria. ALDS could certainly still use some help so if anyone else has the time, give them a call.

Example of a fulfilled volunteer project with a good outcome:

For Abbotsford Convent Foundation I was able to assist them to create a brand and style manual.

What the community group gained:

Apart from the professional brand manual, an empassioned supporter who can't stay away from the Abbotsford Convent, Victoria's premier arts and crafts precinct. I take all my friends there.

What I got out of volunteering my time and skills:

A renewed interest in the arts in Victoria and I felt it was a privilege to be introduced to the amazing people who worked there.

The main difference between the NFP and private sectors:

The drive to succeed with a NFP has a sharper edge. You just want to help, everything that you achieve for a group is greatly appreciated and their thanks is profuse. You don't get that in the private sector!

Tips for Community Groups working with skilled volunteers:

Don't be afraid to ask for help in other areas of your business too. Many volunteers always have friends who have friends who can help.

Tips for Volunteers working with community groups in skilled volunteering:

Remember, you are professionals, your community groups are professionals. You are all equal. Treat each other with respect. There are some amazing leaders in the NFP sector. You can learn so much from them, and they keep you honest!