Our volunteers

Volunteers make it all happen at CQ.

In Sydney, volunteers run all our camps and companion the children at residential camps. We have volunteers who help raise funds through events like the Chandon Supper Club, esCarpade and other smaller events. There are also volunteers who help in the office from time to time with mail outs and other labour intensive projects. Volunteers help us on day outings close to Sydney and at family camps.

Our volunteers are optimistic, fun and energetic people of all ages who give time when they can. We generally have one intake a year so if you are interested in putting your name down for the next one, please visit our volunteer section for more information and to register online. You will be interviewed, police and reference checked and trained by CQ.

60 seconds with Sydney volunteer Chris

1. What drew you to CQ, and what do you love most about what you do?
Initially as a parent of a camper. Later I was employed as a part time Receptionist. As I am passionate about all CQ stands for I enjoy working with staff whenever asked, fighting for the cause if needed, and speaking to others about CQ whenever I have the chance.

2. What have you learnt most about yourself from your involvement?
That passion achieves so much and I am not afraid to show it where necessary.

3. What signature strengths do you bring to CQ?
Personal experience … both sides of the desk, ie as a parent of a child who has benefited from having been a Camper. Also, having seen the "inner sanctum", and how hard everyone has to work to be able to take such care of the CQ families has given me the drive to encourage others whether it be to give support or to become involved.

4. What's a CQ moment you treasure?
Gaining strength from an older ex-CQ camper who had the same diagnosis as my son and that she was not only a survivor but a 10 years-off-treatment survivor when we met her at a CQ family day out. I will never forget the hope she gave me.

5. What do you love to laugh about? 
Janne's stories, generally the atmosphere in the National office.

6. What are you optimistic about?
Hope prevails.

7. What would you say to someone considering joining the 'CQ family'?
Do it Do it Do it!!! So much support can be found, even if it is only through witnessing the joy and strength your child gains through attending the camps, where they discover their own strengths and abilities.