Perth u3a, like all u3as, is a volunteer-led organisation. Our volunteers contribute in a variety of ways to bring a range of learning opportunities to u3a members. They are a dedicated and industrious group who also enjoy themselves. We’re always happy to hear directly from Perth u3a members who want to volunteer. If you’d like to volunteer, email John

What do volunteers do for Perth u3a?

Our volunteers contribute in lots of different ways. Many help on a regular basis at open meetings, as group leaders, as Committee members and in other non-committee roles. Occasionally, there are one-off or short-term opportunities for volunteers at social events, on anniversaries or during promotions.

Who are they and what do they bring?

Our volunteers are very ordinary, friendly and down-to-earth people. The most important thing that they bring is their time, but they also bring their energy and experience of life.

SH is retired and has been an active member of Perth u3a for 10 years. She particularly enjoys being out and about and meeting up with other members. She volunteers at each open meeting to welcome members and complete the register.

Some volunteers bring a little more, such as their enthusiasm for and knowledge of specific topics.

RP has been a member of Perth u3a for 9 years. He has many interests, but in particular he leads the Listening to Opera group. He plans each meeting in advance and circulates details to all of the members beforehand. Ideally he’d like to share some of the responsibilities with a deputy or co-leader.

Other volunteers bring their ideas and great organisational skills.

JB continues to work part-time in a job he loves. He still finds time to volunteer with the Perth u3a and sits on the committee as the Social Events Co-ordinator. Amongst other things, he helps to organise the annual Christmas lunch and sometimes needs volunteers to assist.

How do volunteers benefit?

The Perth u3a volunteers tell us that they benefit in lots of different ways: they make new friends, gain confidence, learn new skills, experience a sense of purpose and belonging and get a lot of personal satisfaction.

How does the recruitment of volunteers work?

We bring opportunities for volunteering to the attention of the wider Perth u3a membership via our open meeting announcements, via our regular newsletter, the News Roundup or by asking individual members directly. The recruitment of volunteers is a joint responsibility shared amongst the volunteer co-ordinator, group leaders and members of the Perth u3a Committee, who try to plan ahead and offer ongoing support to new volunteers. In particular, we try to match volunteers and their personal strengths with suitable roles, helping to ensure that we all benefit and that Perth u3a continues to thrive.