Supporting volunteer groups to wax and wane
Clarence Landcare supported 2 volunteer groups to close down this year, as well as helping 2 new groups to start up.
Capacity building - LP23_035
The issue
Volunteer groups that started over 15 years ago accumulated tools and print materials which the remaining members did not know what to do with as the group membership declines and they decided to close down the group. Conversely, keen new Landcare members often don’t know what is involved in setting up a group and seek guidance from the Local Network staff.
The solution
Clarence Landcare has the experience and capacity to help groups with the legal process and administration to either close down or start up. The experienced staff provide advice on Health and Safety, Equipment, Administration and Communication with members. During this Landcare program, the Local Landcare Co-ordinator assisted 2 long standing incorporated volunteer groups to close down. Clarence Landcare was also approached by new members asking how to set up a new group for their area.
The impact
The remaining volunteers of the closing down groups appreciated the professional advice and admin support from Clarence Landcare staff as they negotiated websites and long phone calls with the Australian Charities and No-for-profits Commission, the Australian Tax Office and their banks. Upon administrative close down of the groups, the remaining assets were passed to Clarence Landcare, including a trailer and market stall equipment, and they are now shared with other members. Meanwhile, the 2 enquiries about starting a group from enthusiastic volunteers who didn’t know where to start has resulted in 2 new unincorporated volunteer groups.
On-ground action - not office work and personal risk
Keen volunteers gain confidence in recruiting members to a new group when they feel supported by the local Landcare Network. The staff are able to share templates and information with the forming group, whilst the volunteers are covered by Landcare insurance. This allows an organic formation of a group without onerous risk or administration work – meaning they can get on with what they formed to do – onground work!
Key facts
- The volunteers of the closing down groups appreciated the professional advice and admin support from Clarence Landcare staff as they negotiated websites and long phone calls with the Australian Charities and No-for-profits Commission, the Australian Tax Office and their banks.
- Upon administrative close down of the groups, the remaining assets were passed to Clarence Landcare, including a trailer and market stall equipment, and they are now shared with other members.
- Meanwhile, the 2 enquiries about starting a group from enthusiastic volunteers who didn’t know where to start has resulted in 2 new unincorporated volunteer groups.