Gift wrap to give back
This Christmas, join STEPS Pathways Charity’s ‘Gift wrap to give back’ campaign and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with disability and autism.
Whether you’re volunteering on your own, with friends, family or work colleagues, you’ll be helping spread festive cheer while raising vital funds to support the life changing programs and opportunities provided by STEPS Pathways College.
Where and when
Our gift wrapping station will be located inside Sunshine Plaza on Level 1, between Dotti and Nude Lucy, from 23 November through to Christmas Eve on 24 December. Convenient parking is available nearby, with complimentary parking provided to volunteers on the day of their shift.
What to expect
As a volunteer gift wrapper, you’ll help create a fun and memorable Christmas experience for shoppers by wrapping gifts, tying ribbons and bows, attaching gift tags, assisting customers and helping to keep the wrapping station organised. No previous gift wrapping experience is required. If you’re willing to learn and keen to help, we’d love to have you involved.
Flexible volunteering opportunities
We know the festive season can be busy, which is why we offer morning, afternoon and evening shifts across weekdays and weekends. You’re welcome to register for multiple shifts, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your availability. You’ll always be part of a supportive team, with experienced volunteers and STEPS staff members available throughout every shift.
Volunteering with friends, family and colleagues
‘Gift wrap to give back’ is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer with others. We welcome individuals, families, friendship groups, and workplace teams, with groups of up to six people able to participate together. Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian throughout their shift.
For more information about ‘Gift wrap to give back’ please review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.
Supporting STEPS Pathways College
All donations raised through ‘Gift wrap to give back’ directly support STEPS Pathways College, the world’s only boarding college dedicated to empowering young people with disability and autism to develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to thrive in adulthood. Every gift wrapped, ribbon tied, and donation received contributes to creating brighter futures for young people with disability and autism. Join us this festive season and help spread Christmas cheer while making a lasting impact in your community. We can’t wait to welcome you to the ‘Gift wrap to give back’ team.
Register your interest
FAQs
Where is the gift wrapping station?
The gift wrapping station is inside the Sunshine Plaza, located on Level 1 between Dotti and Nude Lucy. The nearest parking is the ‘Red Carpark’ or the ‘Yellow Carpark.’
When does the gift wrapping start?
The gift wrapping service will run from Monday 23 November through Thursday 24 December.
What does a volunteer gift wrapper do?
You will be wrapping gifts for the community, along with tying ribbons and attaching gift tags. There will be plenty of hands on deck to assist.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-in shoes. An apron will be provided for your shift. We encourage you to wear your favourite Christmas colours!
How long is each shift?
There are set morning, afternoon, and evening shifts; however, we will try to accommodate your availability where possible.
Can I volunteer for multiple shifts?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to volunteer for as many shifts as suit your availability and schedule.
Is there free parking?
Yes, volunteers will have free parking available on the day of their shift.
Do I need to bring anything?
No, you do not need to bring anything – just your Christmas spirit! All materials will be supplied.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
You must be 14 or older to be a volunteer gift wrapper, and all children under the age of 18 require parental supervision at all times.
Will I be working alone or in a team?
You won’t be alone; there will always be a team of people on-shift, so feel free to arrive solo or bring a group – the more, the merrier! There will also always be a STEPS team member on each shift to assist where needed.
Can I bring my children?
Only children 14 years or older may attend, and they must be under parental supervision for the duration the shift.
Can I volunteer as a group?
Yes, we encourage you to bring along your friends, family, and/or work colleagues to get involved in this festive and fun experience. We can accommodate groups of up to six people.
Is volunteer gift wrapping suitable for people with disabilities or accessibility needs?
Yes, STEPS provides an inclusive environment and we can accommodate your accessibility needs wherever possible.
What happens if I need to cancel a shift?
Upon sign-up, you will receive contact details for the STEPS Volunteer Coordinator, whom you can connect with via text or call if you need to cancel or reschedule a shift.
Do you have to be good at gift wrapping?
No! If you want to help and you are willing to learn, you are perfect for the role. There are also other jobs aside from gift wrapping that you can assist with, such as creating gift tags, preparing ribbons, and keeping the wrapping area organised.
Will gift wrapping training be provided?
We can certainly assist with gift wrapping tips and provide YouTube video guides, and a STEPS team member will be present on each shift, should you require support. This is a safe and fun environment for all, and our volunteers work together to share their expertise
How do we manage payments?
We will accept cash and card payments. We will provide training on how to work our payment system and accept donations.
How are the donations used?
Yes! All donations over $2 are fully tax deductible.
How will my volunteering make a difference?
All donations will be used to support programs and resources at STEPS Pathways College, the only Boarding College of its kind in the world for young people with a disability and autism.
