“I started volunteering at Churches of Christ in Queensland as I wanted to fill my time whilst my children were at school. Since I started, I have gained so many new experiences that will help me get back into the workforce. I’ve met lots of new friends and I love coming in every week to volunteer as it is such a worthwhile thing to do.”
Volunteer Administration Assistant, Head Office, Kenmore, since March 2011
“I’m 24 years old but my health prevents me from working in the paid workforce. However, I am able to work short days and choose to work voluntarily for three days a week for three hours a day. I live in a close knit rural community, where involvement in that community is encouraged and supported. I work with residents in the gardening program one morning a week. This involves a variety of gardening tasks such as planting, watering, harvesting, as well as giving out morning tea and assisting with the washing up.
"I work in the aged care service one morning a week assisting lifestyle staff with the exercise program and games as well as spending time chatting to people individually. The remaining mornings I catch up with the friends I have made at the retirement village and do any tasks they may like me to do such as cleaning out their bird-cage or just to chat.
"I volunteer because it makes me feel good and I feel it helps bring purpose in my life. Volunteering has helped me gain new skills and I have developed confidence and met new people. Volunteering has made a real difference to me. All young people should try it!”
Volunteer Activities Assistant, Fassifern Aged Care Service, Boonah, since 2009
"I’ve been volunteering for three years at Lady Small Haven on the Gold Coast. I wanted to do something different from my ‘normal’ job, working within the legal industry that would offer lots of variation, and above all, work within my comfort zone. I volunteer twice a week and help staff with whatever activities they need assistance with. This includes reading, talking to residents and taking part in games and quizzes.
I really enjoy it and my time as a volunteer has met all my expectations and more."
Volunteer Activities Assistant, Lady Small Haven Aged Care Service, Benowa, since 2012
“My main interest is sewing and over the years I have had a few like minded residents who love to sew. We even won second prize at the Stanthorpe show in 2015 with some of our work! I love to talk with the residents who have such wonderful stories to tell. I have been coming to Carramar, Stanthorpe for about 10 years and love the residents. The staff are wonderful and helpful. If you are considering becoming a volunteer, Churches of Christ is a great place to start.”
Lifestyle Volunteer, Carramar Aged Care Service, Stanthorpe, since 2005
"I used to be a staff member at Lady Small Haven and after I retired, I decided to stay on as a volunteer. I missed the residents and their company; they are part of my family, so I completed the paperwork and I’ve been a registered volunteer for almost two years now.
I help residents with any sewing and mending they have, and also assist staff in the laundry room. If you are on the fence about volunteering, give it a go. You won’t regret it!"
Volunteer Laundry Assistant, Lady Small Haven Aged Care Service Benowa