THE impact of country agency ac.care has always been powered by people – staff, partners and, importantly, the volunteers who help us reach further and support more country South Australians every day.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week (May 18-24) and its 2026 theme, “Your Year to Volunteer,” ac.care is recognising the many ways volunteers strengthen its mission to ensure everyone has a safe home, enough to live on and strong, positive relationships.
“Our volunteers don’t just support our work – they expand our impact and make it possible for us to reach people we otherwise couldn’t,” ac.care chief executive Shane Maddocks said.
“This week is about saying thank you,” he said. “Thank you to every person who gives their time, their skills and their heart to support people in our regions.”
Across the Limestone Coast, Riverland, Murraylands, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula, volunteers play an essential role in helping ac.care respond to growing community need.
Some open their homes as foster carers, offering children safety, stability and the chance to experience nurturing relationships.
Others support homelessness and community programs by preparing emergency accommodation, assisting with digital literacy sessions, transporting clients, collecting donated goods or offering a warm welcome at our sites.
“Our volunteers don’t just give their time – they bring understanding,” Mr Maddocks said.
“Many have walked their own paths of needing support, friendship or recognition of their strengths, and that lived experience helps us stay truly connected to our communities.”
But demand continues to rise with more children needing safe, stable homes and more families seeking support.
ac.care is inviting community members to consider how this could be their year to volunteer in a way that suits their life, skills and availability.
“There isn’t just one way to volunteer with ac.care,” Mr Maddocks said. “People can support us in so many different roles – from opening their home as a foster carer, helping people find connection, or offering practical support behind the scenes.
“Every contribution strengthens our ability to respond with compassion when people need it most.”
Learn more by emailing care@accare.org.au, calling 1300 ACCARE (1300 222 273) or visiting our Careers page.
