Finding Belonging Through Volunteering – National Volunteer Week

Joel sits down with volunteers Phoebe and Leo to explore the power of giving back to the community in light of National Volunteer Week. Phoebe shares her journey from a university student seeking purpose to a researcher supporting LGBTQ+ women’s health. Leo discusses finding a safe haven in Melbourne after living in regions where queerness is criminalised. We discuss how volunteering acts as a kind of “mental gym” that breaks down social isolation and fosters genuine human connection across diverse backgrounds. Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell. If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at [email protected] Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org and samesh.org.au Produced by Joel Parker.