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Leading with Heart: Lucy and the Spirit of Volunteering

22 May 2025

Volunteering not only improves the lives of individuals but also strengthens and uplifts entire communities.

At The Smith Family, we see every day how the time, energy and care our volunteers give – whether it’s a one-off act of kindness or an ongoing commitment – helps open doors for young people in need. And we are so grateful!

The theme for National Volunteer Week 19–25 May 2025 is ‘Connecting Communities’, and it’s an important opportunity to acknowledge the vital role volunteers, like you and Lucy, play in helping students create better futures for themselves.
Lucy, based in Adelaide, leads a team of 35 volunteers nationwide as the Administration and Volunteer Specialist at The Smith Family.

We congratulate Lucy on winning the Young Volunteer Award at the 2025 South Australian Volunteer Awards on 22 May. This award celebrates an outstanding young volunteer who has generously donated their time to activities that benefit the wider community. 
 
After earning a Bachelor of International Development, Lucy joined The Smith Family in an administration role with the Indigenous Youth Leadership Program team. In this role, she helped organise the annual National Gathering in Sydney, a 3-day event that opens up academic and leadership opportunities for Indigenous students from across Australia.

At just 22, Lucy has already made a remarkable impact helping communities experiencing disadvantage.
Lucy has an innate kindness and care for people, and her years of being a volunteer herself have helped her deeply understand the importance of leading wholeheartedly.’ The Smith Family is sure to benefit from having Lucy join our vibrant community, where her impact will continue to grow.
marion, lucy's team leader
Lucy’s passion for community work began long before joining The Smith Family. She was recognised for six years of volunteering with the Rotary Club, later becoming a guest speaker and mentor. She completed the Duke of Edinburgh Award over three years, and travelled to Africa to learn about sustainable development in remote communities.
It’s a privilege to contribute to such meaningful initiatives while continuing to learn and grow in this space.
lucy, administration and volunteer Specialist at the smith family
Lucy volunteered with The Magdalene Centre for homelessness support and The Welcome Centre for refugee communities. She also participated in a cultural exchange to Pipyalatjara Anangu School, which inspired her to become a Reconciliation Ambassador.

By joining The Smith Family, Lucy not only brings her passion for helping others but also strengthens our volunteer community. Her leadership and experience will help guide and inspire volunteers, making an even greater impact in the lives of students experiencing disadvantage.
A huge thank you to all the volunteers who give their valuable time and energy to support our communities! With Lucy’s leadership and the collective efforts of volunteers like you, we’re excited to see how your impact will continue to grow.

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