Volunteer jobs in Melbourne VIC

At Salvos Stores, we’re not just a retailer — we’re a community of changemakers working together to make a real difference. As the retail arm of The Salvation Army, we’re dedicated to raising funds that support life-changing programs for those in need. We operate over 400 Stores across Australia (including online), offering a sustainable shopping experience through the recycling of pre-loved items. Join our diverse and collaborative team in the role of Volunteer Retail Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in supporting our store operations. You’ll work alongside a dedicated team of managers, support staff, and fellow volunteers, while gaining valuable skills, making new friendships, and contributing to your community. Whether you’re sorting donations, assisting with online orders, or interacting with customers in store, you’ll be helping raise much-needed funds to provide essential services to those who need it most. Please note – this volunteer role is not a paid position. About You:

• Friendly and Approachable: Enjoy working as part of a team, willing to make new connections, have fun, and build lasting friendships with both customers and colleagues.
• Positive Attitude: Bring a positive, can-do attitude to the role, even in challenging situations, to maintain a motivating environment for yourself and others.
• Follow Instructions and Seek Help When Needed: Be open to guidance, willing to follow instructions, and comfortable asking for help when needed to ensure tasks are completed correctly.
• Integrity and Honesty: Demonstrate strong moral principles, be honest in all actions, and approach your role with a sense of responsibility.
• Alignment with Values: Willingness to work in line with The Salvation Army's mission and values, while adhering to official policies and procedures to maintain a respectful and ethical environment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Greet Customers: Welcome each customer with a warm, friendly, and approachable attitude to create a positive shopping experience.
• Assist with Inquiries: Provide clear, helpful information to customers, answering any questions and guiding them as needed.
• Support Donor Care Program: Assist in receiving donated goods, ensuring proper handling and communication with donors as part of our Donor Care program.
• Process Donated Goods: Assess the condition, functionality, and suitability of donated items according to our production guidelines to ensure quality and usability. Follow agreed-upon pricing standards to accurately price items for sale both in store or online.
• Stock and Display: Place priced items on the sales floor in their allocated areas, ensuring a neat and organized presentation for customers. Assist with the visual merchandising of products to enhance store’s appearance.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean items, the sales floor, and staff areas to ensure a pleasant, tidy, and safe environment.
• Waste Management: Follow waste management guidelines in line with our sustainable practices, ensuring that all waste is handled appropriately.
• Ensure Safety: Maintain a safe environment for customers, visitors, and staff by consistently adhering to safe work practices and guidelines.
• Health and Safety: Be mindful of your own health and take care of the health and safety of others around you, including customers and colleagues.