MVRC Coordinator Nicola Schuman said websites for Headwest (www.headwest.asn.au), Autism Solutions (www.autismsolutionsinc.org.au) the MORE Group (www.oldschoollibrary.com/events.php) and Friends of Harry Sandon (www.harrysandon.org) were just some of those to have been launched in the past fortnight, thanks to the collaboration between students and volunteers. “Initially, the MVRC linked Murdoch University Public Relations (PR) students with various non-profit groups to develop integrated public relations plans,” she said. “Finalised in November last year, many of the students’ PR plans recommended the creation of websites for the organisations – as a cost-effective, accessible means to interact with local residents.”

“In February this year, the MVRC connected these same groups with students undertaking the Interactive Digital Design course, to design or develop a website for each group. The organisations that have been involved in this project agree it will help them to promote themselves and provide timely information about their organisations to the community,” she said. “The community will have greater access to information about these valuable community services that are supported through volunteer efforts.”

Senior Lecturer and Program Chair (Digital Media) at Murdoch University’s School of Media, Communications and Culture, Mark Cypher said he was thrilled students had the opportunity to work on a real project as part of their final year studies. “With help from the MVRC, we have been able to connect students with real projects that enhance learning in so many ways,” he said. “By working with real clients, students learn not only how to build a website, but also how to set up meetings, manage expectations and deadlines, and get a genuine understanding of how a website is developed to achieve specific outcomes.”

For more information on the partnership between Murdoch University and the City of Melville’s non-profit organisations, phone the MVRC on 9364 0153.