Volunteering – it’s rewards for all…..         Gigi

Betty Roberts is a Volunteer and every week or so I bump into her at work.  Alert and interesting, she gives her time to the Research Centre and to Legacy and tells me “you get more out of volunteering than you put into it.”

When did you start volunteering?

9 years ago

Why did you start volunteering?

Work had been stimulating and after I left, being at home was not for me.

Which group did you choose?

I chose Legacy.  My husband had been an ex-serviceman and in the years after his death Legacy had helped me, and now I had the time to give back.

What is Legacy?

Legacy is a charitable organisation formed in the early 1920’s when the Returned Servicemen became aware that the widows and dependants of the former comrades needed assistance.  

How is Legacy funded?

There is some government support, but mainly by donations, bequests and Legacy Badge Week in September.  But no amount of funding could sustain the voluntary services of the Legatees who give their time and skill in looking after the needs of the Legacy Widows.

What sort of work do you do at Legacy?

I began as a general helper in their Day Care Club, then as treasurer and for the last two years have been its Co-ordinator.  At all times, I have been able to draw on my experiences in office work, libraries and teaching. 

What does that entail?

Day Care Clubs work within a framework, so my job is to coordinate its elements but to remember – never ask anyone to do anything you wouldn’t do yourself. 

Our members, unable to access or use public transport, are brought to the Club by bus or disabled taxi.  On arrival they have morning tea, then a session of gentle exercise.  This is followed by juice.  Next what is called ‘Mental Stimulation’ provided by speakers, entertainers, quizzes, Trivia Days or a Theme Day.  Then lunch, which is followed by Bingo before going home.

It sounds like a big day for everyone?

Yes it is, but it’s not a one woman show because none of this would be possible without the support and cooperation of volunteers – who set tables, help members from buses, to the lift and then to the auditorium, prepare and serve morning tea, juice and lunch, do the book work associated with a club, then clear up before going home. Tiring but ever so rewarding for all.

You are also a volunteer at Concord Hospital.

Yes. This is my eighth year.  At first I worked on the Volunteers Market Stall and now in CERA.

What do you do here in the Research Centre?

I look after the Wal Newington Library.  I have done filing for a Vision and Falls Study and now I stamp envelopes, fold bags and sort and file for the ongoing CHAMP study.

Do you need any special skills to be a volunteer?

Absolutely not.  Any lifetime experience can be used and there is also the opportunity to learn new skills or reinvigorate existing ones.

What is the age group of volunteers?

There is no set age – young to old. 

What do you get out of Volunteering?

Meeting different people, making new friends, learning new skills, all of which add up to a satisfaction of knowing that you are one of the vast army of volunteers that make a difference to so many different people.   

Betty exemplifies what a ‘wisewomen’ indeed is?  She still embraces life and keeps herself active with the stimulation of her volunteering.  At 79, she enjoys helping others and her days are full and rewarding. 

Good on you Betty. 

So if any one of you has some time to spare and share…..join a volunteering group and make what you do a ‘star building experience’.