Study shows heart-warming benefits of volunteering
Volunteering makes the world of difference to people’s personal wellbeing and feeling of purpose, according to a new Volunteer Census report by Community Information and Support Victoria (CISVic). Of 624 volunteers surveyed, 95% believe their work is meaningful, 92% feel they are a respected member of their support agency, and the vast majority believe the most is being made of their skills and expertise. Giving back to the community is the main reason for volunteering.

More families seek help to pay school expenses
Many Victorian families are doing it tough and finding it hard to meet basic education costs such as books, uniforms and excursions. 'In these cases, it is the children who suffer, forcing parents to seek financial and material assistance form services', says Kate Wheller, Executive Officer of Community Information and Support Victoria (CISVic). 

Thousands left speechless as federal government cuts interpreting service
Peak bodies unite to urge federal government to reinstate free interpreting services for emergency relief services.

Peak body calls for Federal Government to commit to retaining “Last Safety Net” funding
Kate Wheller, CISVic Executive Officer urges the Federal Government to retain current levels of funding for emergency relief services, generalist casework and financial counselling. Current funding agreements expire on 30 June 2014, and with 56% of clients living in poverty, and 44% struggling to make ends meet, this critical service is the Last Safety Net for vulnerable families and individuals in our communities.  

Children suffer as families unable to pay school costs
Many Victorian families are facing financial crisis and struggling with their children's education costs