Every day, young volunteers across Cancer Council NSW bring energy, passion and fresh perspectives to our mission.
From 10-16 August 2026, our organisation will join others across Australia in celebrating National Youth Volunteering Week (NYVW), a week dedicated to recognising the valuable contributions of young volunteers, encouraging more young people to get involved, and creating meaningful opportunities where they can thrive.
At Cancer Council NSW, NYVW is an opportunity to celebrate our 35 volunteers aged 24 and under, whose time, skills and enthusiasm help drive our mission to reduce the impact of cancer. Whether supporting events, such as Relay for Life, engaging with communities, contributing through a formal placement or strengthening our day-to-day operations, these young volunteers make a meaningful difference every day. We are proud to recognise their contributions and thank them for the impact they have on our organisation and the communities we serve.
Meet Ruby, volunteer at Cancer Council NSW
To celebrate NYVW, we're proud to share the inspiring story and outstanding contributions of one of our incredible volunteers, Ruby. Ruby is a volunteer in our Community Fundraising team from the South Coast Region. She talks about why volunteering at Cancer Council NSW is so meaningful.
Why did you start volunteering with Cancer Council NSW?
My dad survived cancer thanks to groundbreaking research. So when my marketing tutor recommended Cancer Council NSW as a great place to learn, I jumped at the chance to help other families spend more time with their loved ones while doing what I enjoy.
How long have you been volunteering with us, and what is your volunteer role?
I've been volunteering for nine months since November. I'm a Marketing and Events Assistant. I've enjoyed writing and visual design since I could pick up a pencil. I design visuals from Facebook posts to printed posters, manage social media and assist with events organisation and management.
What skills have you gained through volunteering?
I've applied the skills I've learned at university like copy writing and designing according to brand guidelines. But what I'm most proud of is learning how to better combine the social with the media and jumping into community engagement with the Community Fundraising Unit.
What has been your most memorable moment as a volunteer with Cancer Council NSW?
My highlight so far is The Stars of Nowra gala night. I learned so much about event management from Kelly and Robyn from communications to how to make a seating chart. Also, I really enjoyed creating all the visuals and I felt proud to display my work in front of the community knowing how much effort I put into the designs. It was a fantastic experience working alongside the team and stepping in whenever I could.
What would you say to other young people who are considering volunteering?
It's an amazing chance to produce your own work in an encouraging environment, knowing every piece contributes to a cancer free future while also learning new skills, meeting new people and making new friends.
This National Youth Volunteer Week, we thank our youth volunteers for the time, energy and passion they bring to our mission. Your dedication strengthens communities, inspires others, and shows the powerful impact we can make together against cancer.
