Turning Passion into Profession: From Volunteers to Case Workers
In many industries, career progression is seen as a journey that requires hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck. However, for some people, the path to success begins with an unexpected entry point: volunteering.
This was certainly the case for two Brisbane Relief Hub (BRH) case workers, Fiona and Alexis, who began their careers as a volunteer and student placement respectively and worked their way up to become vital members of Wesley Mission Queensland (WMQ). Their stories highlight how volunteering can be a stepping stone in career development and demonstrates the value of mentorship, perseverance, and continuous learning in achieving long-term career success.
Fiona’s story: a teenage volunteer turned case worker
“Officially, I’ve been here for a year. Unofficially, I’ve been here for about six!”
Fiona’s journey into social work began at just 13 years old. She recalls her father coming home after volunteering at the Brisbane Relief Hub with his workmates, sharing inspiring stories about the people he had supported.
“At 13 years old, I came along with the manager's approval to work in the kitchen ... I worked in the kitchen for about a year and then started volunteering elsewhere, partnering up with Dad first and then with the other volunteers.”
A Natural Career Progression
During her time as a volunteer, Fiona finished high school. She knew she wanted to make a difference, but she hadn’t yet discovered her exact path. What she did know was that volunteering at the Relief Hub was “lots of fun.”
She went on to complete a diploma in community services, continuing to volunteer at BRH the whole time. She loved the one-on-one interactions with community members, helping them navigate challenges and witnessing their resilience.
When a case worker role became available, Fiona applied. Her dedication to WMQ and knowledge of the service made it an easy choice to offer her the role. Now, she works directly with clients, helping them apply for services, supporting them with paperwork, and assisting them in bettering their lives.
You see them smile, you see them cry, you just stick around with them through both.
Alexis' story: student, volunteer, case worker
Alexis’ journey into case work was also shaped by volunteering, though she sees her progression as less linear than Fiona’s.
While completing a certificate in youth work, Alexis attended a talk by Brisbane Relief Hub manager Penny about the work BRH did.
“And I thought, ‘Oh, sounds awesome. I'll go do my placement there.’ And after that, they couldn't get rid of me!”
From Student Placement to Paid Role
After completing 100 placement hours at BRH, Alexis stayed on as a regular volunteer. Wanting to stay within the organisation, she secured a position in the kitchen of one of WMQ’s aged care facilities. Eventually, a case worker role opened up, and Alexis applied.
To her delight, she was offered the role and has now been a case worker for six months.
“While my certificate was in youth work, I realised that by supporting Mum and Dad, I’m supporting kids as well.”
Overcoming Self-Doubt
At first, Alexis was hesitant about stepping into a paid role.
“When I first got this job, I thought that I would be trained on the answers to everything. Like there would be some book where I could just turn to page 83. But it doesn’t work like that … It’s more about problem-solving, which is really fun for me … I really had to overcome imposter syndrome and learn not to be afraid.”
Now, she finds great satisfaction in helping individuals set and achieve their goals, whether that means securing housing, finding meals, or improving their mental health.
The common thread: the power of volunteering
While Fiona and Alexis took different paths, their stories share a common thread: volunteering played a critical role in launching their careers.
The Benefits of Volunteering
Hands-on experience: They gained practical knowledge and exposure to real case work.
Networking opportunities: They built relationships with industry professionals.
A career test run: Volunteering helped them confirm their passion for case work.
Skill development: They learned essential skills that made them stand out in job applications.
They both agree that the shift from volunteer to paid employee was significant.
Fiona notes, “I feel like client interactions really shifted … now I have one-on-one appointments where I really get to know customers and their situation.”
Alexis adds, “It’s so different being a case worker. It took me a moment to get used to it being so busy. There’s always something to do.”
Looking back: advice from others
Fiona and Alexis agree that BRH is where they were meant to be.
“Every day has a rewarding moment in it,” said Alexis. “Something as simple as giving a customer a bag of dog food could have someone crying in my office. Or being able to give some Christmas toys to families who thought they wouldn’t have anything. I just love it.”
When asked for advice, Alexis keeps it simple:
Volunteer. You need to experience it before you get into it. Case work can be challenging—you need to see if it’s something you can do.
Fiona agrees, adding, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and say yes to opportunities. Give everything a shot.”
Take the First Step
Fiona and Alexis’s stories highlight the power of volunteering as a tool for career progression. If you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, don’t underestimate the value of volunteering.
Whether as a stepping stone to a full-time role or a way to gain experience, volunteering can open doors and set you on the path to success—just as it did for Fiona and Alexis.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, take the first step today. Consider volunteering—you never know where it might take you.