Flying Fox

  • Community Development

  • Working with children and youth

The Organisation

Flying Fox is a youth-led not-for-profit organisation that creates social opportunities for young people with and without disability. We aim to tackle social isolation by equipping young adult volunteers to support participants with disability to build independence, deepen community engagement, and thrive as equal members of society.

At Flying Fox, we believe fun is a human right. Our programs harness the power of fun to break down barriers and foster genuine friendships. We offer a variety of programs throughout the year, including Camps and Hangouts.

About the volunteering activities

Monash students can join Flying Fox in the role of a ‘Buddy’. Being a Buddy means showing patience, openness, and enthusiasm, being willing to try new things, and having a passion for ensuring people with disability are afforded every opportunity to live a full life.

Flying Fox offers hands-on, rewarding volunteer experiences through two main programs: Hangouts and Mini-Camps. After completing interactive, skills-based training, volunteers can choose to participate in Hangouts alone, or in a combination of both Hangouts and a Mini-Camp.

Hangouts (Weekly Social Program)Hangouts are fun, 2-hour social gatherings held on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and afternoons, as well as Saturday mornings. Students join participants for a wide range of activities, including African drumming, fitness classes, karaoke, Soak Bathhouse, Archie Brothers Arcade, Zumba and more. Sign-ups are flexible, session-to-session, so you can join the activities that interest you the most.

Camp (3-Day, 2-Night Weekend Program)

Flying Fox Mini-Camps are immersive, 3-day, 2-night getaways designed to replicate a fun weekend away with friends. Being a Buddy on a Mini-Camp means supporting participants in whatever ways they need, behavioural, physical, and/or emotional support. Most volunteers use a combination of these approaches to build meaningful connections and help participants thrive. Supporting someone with additional needs can be challenging, so persistence, determination, and genuine passion are key. Celebrating small wins and maintaining a positive outlook are central to the role.

More information

To find out more about becoming a Monash volunteer at Flying Fox, fill out the Expression of Interest form.