This month’s Volunteer Spotlight features Sally, a volunteer in the Gippsland region, who is thankful for the opportunity to be matched with Neil.
I was lucky to meet up recently with one of my newer volunteers Sally and her matched friend Neil, as it turns out that they were in my local Art Gallery to look at some work Neil has in there.
Neil is a spritely octogenarian who cheerfully describes himself as a ‘junk Sculptor. Neil still lives in the home he once shared with his wife, who is now in full-time care due to advanced Alzheimer’s. He misses her every day and visits her as much as he can. Thankfully, he shares his home with Rory, his beautiful and gentle retired greyhound, who keeps him company.
Neil shared that “since Evie got ill, I found it difficult to find motivation to continue to do the things that brought me joy in my life. I stopped my art and going out and catching up with mates.”
When Neil shared his struggles with his Case Manager, they reached out to, Tanya, the Gippsland Program Officer who immediately called Neil to chat about our program.
Neil said, “I didn’t know what to think or expect, but! liked the idea of companionship.”
Neil was matched with a wonderful volunteer, Sally, and watching them banter together over a cup of coffee is a special treat.
“From our first phone call we had a connection” Sally said. “He was very cheeky. When I asked when we should meet, he said, well what about now! We met up within 48 hours.” Neil interjected her with a laugh “Sometimes I can’t get rid of her!” “Together we solve the problems of the world. As I am new to the area, we have decided to go out on a monthly lunch adventure. Neil is going to share the history of the Gippsland region as we both share a passion for history.”
Neil went on to share whilst having a good chuckle that “Sally has become his biggest cheerleader …. And nagger”. Neil is a well-known local artist. He has been shaping metal for more years than he cares to remember, transforming discarded materials into everything from delicate insects to fully interactive pieces of heavy machinery. His work has appeared in exhibitions both locally and internationally, and he has collected numerous awards along the way – including Best Local Artist at a Warragul show.
Among his creations, my personal favourites are his “crazy birds,” whimsical characters that stand about 45 cm tall and never fail to make me smile. These days, Neil’s work can be found at the Yarragon Town & Country Art Gallery.
Sally has said that “I have had a longstanding struggle with mental health, and volunteering helps give me a sense of self-worth and value. I am personally driven to give back to my community & others. Being able to volunteer gives me a sense of purpose”.