Start 2025 with purpose: Make a difference this year with Vinnies

At Vinnies, our goal is to create a more just and compassionate society. When it comes to New Year’s Resolutions, we’re all about creating a ripple effect of kindness, support, and sustainability through our actions. 

If you’re looking for some inspiration on how to do more good this year, here are some easy and impactful habits to embrace in 2025 that align with our mission to help those in need while also caring for the environment.

Reduce waste and recycle with purpose

Recycling not only reduces waste but also gives you a tangible way to contribute to positive change. Getting involved with our Return & Earn program is a great way to ensure recyclables are being properly processed, which contributes to a more circular economy. Collect your eligible bottles and cans and return them at our ten depots around NSW to receive a 10c per item refund. If you’re feeling extra generous, you can also choose to use those refunds to support Vinnies’ work in your community!

Shop pre-loved for the planet

Did you know buying second-hand fashion has a much smaller carbon footprint than buying new? When you skip the fast fashion haul, you’re saving serious CO2 emissions. For example, snagging a tee, sweater, and pants from a Vinnies store means cutting back about 45kg of CO2 emissions – the equivalent of planting 23 trees in one day!

With over 220 Vinnies stores in NSW, there are millions of unique items waiting to be discovered. Build a wardrobe that’s as one-of-a-kind as you are and feel good about reducing your environmental impact while you’re at it.

Support others by becoming a Vinnies member

Join a community of over 3,500 members across NSW as they make a difference every day. Vinnies members provide essential support like food, clothing, and assistance with utilities, directly helping those in need. By becoming a member, you’ll be assisting people in your local community and be part of a compassionate and action-driven network.

For those of you who are students or young adults, Vinnies Youth groups offer another way of getting involved. From running kids' days out and homework clubs to organizing soup vans and social justice campaigns, young members are making a huge impact. Vinnies Youth groups meet locally to address community needs, and volunteers can also assist at shops or services supporting housing, health, and more. With over 10,000 volunteers statewide, joining Vinnies Youth is a chance to make a difference and form lifelong friendships.

Engage in community service

Volunteering is a fantastic way to expand your skills and experience, increase your employability, and stay engaged with the community. It's also a way for you to give back and help people who need a hand. Vinnies can work with you to provide rewarding experiences, opportunities to utilise your talents, or provide training to help you serve the people in your neighborhood.

Our work is only possible because of our volunteers. From our Vinnies shops and offices to our Night Patrol vans, homelessness refuges, disability and inclusion activities, youth buddies days, and social justice campaigns, there’s a way for everyone to make a difference. Discover the role that's right for you and dedicate just a few hours or a few days each week to volunteering with Vinnies. Your time is a precious gift, and we appreciate every volunteer that can help us do what we do.

Charitable giving: Every little bit counts

Giving doesn’t have to be grand to be impactful. You can set aside a small portion of your income each month for donations, or participate in fundraisers for causes close to your heart. Many companies also match employee donations through Workplace Giving programs, doubling your impact and demonstrating a strong commitment to the community. This collective effort can help fund our vital programs that support the most vulnerable people in NSW. It’s simple to set up and creates meaningful change through the power of teamwork. Even small contributions help fuel programs that change lives.

Donate goods to support your community

If it’s time to declutter or your kids have outgrown their clothes, consider donating your unwanted items to Vinnies shops. Great quality clothing and homeware donations help fund Vinnies programs that support 1.3 million vulnerable Australians each year. Your pre-loved items gain a new life, reduce landfill, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Bring your items to any Vinnies shop during business hours, or place them in our donation bins.

Advocate for change

Learning more about social justice is a great way to help us build a more just and compassionate society. By educating yourself on issues like poverty and homelessness, you’ll be able to better understand and advocate for those in need. Join the Vinnies Social Justice Network and become part of a community who are challenging the root causes of poverty and disadvantage.

We take actions big and small, from collecting signatures on petitions and organizing events to meeting with local political representatives. Our network is open to everyone, regardless of experience, location, or availability. Join today to receive regular updates and opportunities to take action. We can work together to create a society where everyone can live a full and dignified life.

Small habits, big impact

The start of a new year is a great time to reflect on how our daily choices can make a difference. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, shopping second-hand, or reducing waste, every action counts. At Vinnies, we’re here to help you make 2025 a year of positive change for yourself, your community, and our planet.

Ready to get started? Stop in at your local Vinnies shop or visit vinnies.org.au. Together, we can create a brighter future.

Happy New Year from all of us at Vinnies!