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At our local aged care home, something beautiful is happening—a story of friendship and hope that embodies the heart of volunteering. Meet Carol, one of our dedicated volunteers whose experience with Joan, a lovely lady in her 70s, showcases the profound impact of human connection.
‘I’ve been matched with a lovely lady in my local aged care home. I’ll call her Joan,’ Carol begins, reflecting on her initial encounter with Joan. Joan, feeling deeply isolated and saddened by her circumstances, hadn’t made friends within the facility and rarely saw her family. Carol’s arrival was a pleasant surprise for Joan, who eventually opened up, and soon they were chatting comfortably.
Carol’s thoughtful gesture—a small card adorned with two beautiful lorikeets, her favourite birds—symbolised their growing friendship. ‘I had put my name in the card so that she would remember who I was,’ Carol explains. Joan cherished this card, placing it on her room’s shelf—a tangible reminder of the bond they were forming.
The impact of Carol’s visits quickly became evident. During her second visit, Joan eagerly awaited her arrival, greeting Carol with a glass of water and a cosy spot on the couch. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, and what was meant to be a short visit extended to two hours of laughter and shared stories.
Reflecting on her experiences, Carol shares, ‘As I left, she gave me a big hug and thanked me for coming.’ These moments of appreciation and warmth underline the significance of volunteerism, especially in environments where companionship can make a world of difference.
Joan’s anticipation for Carol’s next visit speaks volumes about the positive impact of volunteer engagement. ‘She told me she was looking forward to my next visit,’ Carol says, highlighting the joy she’s brought into Joan’s life.
Through Carol’s story, we see the transformative power of simple acts of kindness and companionship. Volunteering isn’t just about giving time; it’s about forging connections that brighten lives and nurture spirits.
Join us in creating more stories like Carol’s—stories of joy, companionship, and hope. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or fortnightly, your presence can make a world of difference to someone like Joan.
Ready to make a difference? Volunteer with our Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) today! Go to our Volunteer section to learn more about getting involved and bringing smiles to faces like Joan’s. Together, let’s build a community where no one feels alone.