After losing my job in a fairly traumatic manner, I initially signed up for my well being. I had looked into volunteering as a means of re-connecting with others and fostering a sense of community and belonging. 

Becoming a Fringe Vollie gave me a new sense of purpose. It helped me build new relationships and a sense of community with both the Fringe team and also with Fringe-goers. I truly believe it helped with my recuperation and gave me the confidence to reconnect with a community outside of work.  

For me, it is a sense of community and belonging. There was an immediate sense of comradery and belonging amongst the Fringe volunteers and also the wider Fringe organisation. Beyond that, there is also a sense of belonging amongst the Fringe-goers and the wonderful people we get to meet throughout the season. 

My fondest memory of being a Fringe Vollie was two years ago when I was working at the Fringe Booth in Rundle Mall and was able to assist a Fringe-goer in booking a show that aligned with his needs. He was only in town for the day so after a nice conversation about his interests, we were able to book a ticket for him. He returned later in the afternoon to let me know that he had an amazing time and the full circle between an introduction, connecting a Fringe-goer to the right show, having them attend and return to let me know they loved it was a really nice feeling. 

Thank you to our Community Partner Lumo energy SA for continuing to empower friends of the Fringe by supporting our Volunteer Program.