Volunteer Profile : Cody
Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and how did you hear about the volunteering role at PCYC Queensland?
My name is Cody and I am 29 years old. I work for the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in an administrative role, which involves supporting the daily operations and ensuring smooth functioning of the department. Additionally, I serve as an auxiliary firefighter with the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, where I assist in responding to emergencies and helping keep the community safe.
Volunteering is a significant part of my life. I volunteer with the State Emergency Service (SES), where I help in disaster response and community support activities and I also volunteer with the Police-Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) Queensland, an organisation dedicated to providing youth development and community engagement programs.
I first heard about the volunteering role at PCYC Queensland through colleagues at QPS and during community events. Their emphasis on fostering positive relationships between the police and the community, particularly the youth, inspired me to get involved and contribute my time and skills to this meaningful cause.
What inspired you to become a volunteer at PCYC Queensland?
What inspired me to become a volunteer at PCYC Queensland was the organisation’s commitment to fostering positive relationships between the police and the community, particularly the youth. Seeing the positive impact PCYC programs have on young people, providing them with mentoring, guidance, support, and opportunities for personal development, motivated me to get involved. Additionally, my roles in QPS and as an auxiliary firefighter have shown me the importance of community engagement and proactive support, making volunteering at PCYC a natural and fulfilling extension of my dedication to public service.
What motivated you to choose PCYC Queensland for volunteering?
I chose to volunteer at PCYC Queensland because of their commitment to empowering young people and fostering positive relationships between police, youth, and the community. Their holistic approach to youth development, offering a range of programs and activities, aligned with my own values of making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I was inspired by their mission to create safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities, and I wanted to be part of that impactful work.
Can you describe your role as a volunteer and the activities you’re involved in?
As a volunteer at PCYC Queensland, I am involved in several impactful programs. One of the key programs I volunteer for is the “Breaking the Cycle” program, which focuses on supporting and guiding learner drivers to enable them to obtain their provisional licence.
I also assist with the “Boxing After Dark” program, which offers young people a safe and structured environment to engage in boxing training during evening hours. This program not only promotes physical fitness and discipline but also provides a constructive outlet for energy and emotions.
Additionally, I am involved in the “Deadly Choices” program, which encourages Indigenous youth to make healthy lifestyle choices. This program aims to improve health outcomes through education and community activities, fostering a sense of pride and cultural identity.
Through these activities, I contributed to the well-being and development of young people in my community, helping them build resilience, confidence, and a positive outlook on life.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering at PCYC Queensland?
Volunteering at PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Clubs) has been incredibly rewarding. What I enjoy most is the chance to mentor and inspire young people, helping them realise their potential and guiding them toward positive paths in life. Being a part of their journey, witnessing their growth, and seeing the impact that we can make together is truly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to be involved in creating a safe and supportive environment where young individuals can thrive and develop essential life skills.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your volunteer work?
One particularly memorable moment from my volunteer work at PCYC Queensland was when a young participant in the “Breaking the Cycle” program obtained their driver’s licence. Seeing the genuine smile on their face and the sense of accomplishment and pride radiating from them was incredibly rewarding. It was a moment of triumph not just for the individual, but also for the entire team involved in supporting them throughout their journey. Witnessing the positive impact of our efforts firsthand and knowing that we had played a part in empowering someone to achieve such an important milestone, was truly heartwarming and reaffirmed the value of our volunteer work.
How has volunteering at PCYC Queensland impacted you personally?
Volunteering at PCYC Queensland has had a profound personal impact on me. It’s been a journey of growth, empathy, and understanding. Working with the diverse community of young people has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the challenges they face. It’s taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of community support. Overall, it’s been a transformative experience that has enriched my life in countless ways.
Is there anything else you would like to add about your experience as a volunteer?
I would really like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to volunteer at PCYC Queensland. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am continually amazed by the dedication and passion of the staff and fellow volunteers. The bonds formed with the participants and the sense of community fostered within PCYC have been invaluable. I am committed to continuing my involvement and contributing to the positive impact PCYC has on the lives of young people and the broader community. Volunteering at PCYC has been a transformative journey, and I look forward to the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead.