Connecting Christians like Carly with organisations who are looking for volunteers is the work of Hope for Sydney.

Based on a model out of New York (aptly titled Hope for New York), Hope for Sydney aims to be an outward-facing mercy ministry for all Christian people in Sydney. Helen Kim, the Executive Director of Ministry for Hope for Sydney says, “so far, Sydney Christians seem to be anxious to do something for the poor and disadvantaged.”

Many people “don’t always have a clear picture of what it is they are supposed to do – what their involvement in charitable service is supposed to look like, what to commit to, etc,” says Helen.

This was Carly’s story. She says, “Too often, we are convicted with a sense of wanting to change something or support a cause without knowing how practically.

“I get emails when there are needs that I might be able to help with,” says Carly.

Helen notices some common threads amongst Hope for Sydney volunteers, saying that she is encouraged by their “desire to serve charitably, as well as the attitudes I have seen in many of the volunteers, including their generosity, kindness and thoughtfulness, and how they listen to and interact with individuals.”

Due to family and work commitments Carly has only been able to commit to single events at nursing homes, refugee support services, and at an organisation that feeds the homeless. She says “I would actually enjoy doing something more relational long term as the once off was good.”

Helen says that one of the unique ideologies held by urban dwellers in large cities is “valuing charitable service and viewing it as a necessary part of being a ‘responsible’ person engaged with the world. [Social media] makes it not only easier to involve young adult Christians, but to communicate an immediacy that is identifiable.

“I am excited by the opportunity to infuse volunteer service with our gospel hope. Christians have a faith that is so love-filled that we can look beyond self-fulfilment, and towards loving others in need,” says Helen.

You can get involved with Hope for Sydney here.

Image: Hope for Sydney, 2014.