.png)
On 5 December, we join communities across the world in celebrating International Volunteer Day - a moment to acknowledge the essential role volunteers play in strengthening and supporting the places we live and work.
At Programmed, we’re proud to empower our people to make a meaningful difference through our Volunteer Leave initiative, affording eligible employees two paid days each year to contribute to causes they care about.
Across our organisation, team members have embraced this opportunity with enthusiasm. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on just a few inspiring examples from 2025 that reflect the spirit of giving and the Programmed values we live by.
🛍️ Finding connection in community
Since December 2023, Sinem Celik, Research & Insights Manager, has been volunteering every three weeks at the Uniting Op Shop - an experience she describes as one of the most grounding parts of her life.
“In a world where we’re all so caught up in our own routines, it feels good to do something that connects me to the community,” said Sinem. “The people at the shop are lovely, the vibe is always positive, and I learn something new every time I’m there. Plus, it’s just fun.”
☕ Painting it forward
To celebrate National Volunteer Week earlier this year, a team from our WA Contracts & Commercial department banded together to support the Salvation Army’s Coffee Booth in Northbridge.
Armed with paintbrushes and feeling inspired, the team spent the day refreshing the space, installing a vibrant green wall and transforming the environment into an even more welcoming place for the community.
“Volunteer Week is all about giving back to the community, and we couldn’t have asked for a more rewarding experience,” said Krista Sambuco, Purchasing Lead.
"A great, fun and productive day was had by all with a rewarding sense of achievement," added Josie Sloane, Operations Manager.
🎭 Reconnecting with the creative community
Kate Saunders, Service Centre Team Leader, is no stranger to the stage. Having previously worked as an Assistant Theatre Technician in Townsville, Kate dedicated much of her spare time to volunteering with community arts organisations, sometimes volunteering on up to 10 theatrical productions a year.
Since moving to Melbourne, she missed working in theatres and being in amongst the beautiful, organised chaos and vibrancy of creative communities – which is where our Volunteer Leave policy came in handy.
“Being someone who grew up going to drama and art classes that were often run by non-profit organisations who relied on volunteers, it's important to me to be able to give some of that back and pay it forward for the younger generations,” said Kate.
“I would have volunteered on this show even without the volunteer leave days, but having that leave available made it possible for me to give more of my time and attention to this project, allowing me to have the time and brain space to really engage with and enjoy the work.”
On International Volunteer Day, we acknowledge the thousands of volunteers - including our own people - whose efforts strengthen community organisations across Australia and New Zealand.
We’re so proud to play a part in that ongoing impact through our Volunteer Leave policy, and we continue to be inspired by our team members helping to build stronger, more connected communities for all.
