Suncare Volunteers Finalists at the National Aged and Community Services Australia (ASCA) Awards
The bright lights of the big city lured Suncare volunteer Sally Dickinson away from the Sunshine Coast this week. Sally and fellow volunteer Paul Freeborough, represented Queensland as finalists in the 2019 National Volunteer of the Year category at the Aged and Community Services Australia (ASCA) Awards in Melbourne on Wednesday, 9th October. While Sally and Paul were both finalists, Sally made the trip to the event with Suncare Community Services staff to support her.
The title of Volunteer of the Year is awarded to individuals who demonstrate tireless generosity in caring for and supporting older people in the community.
Suncare Community Services CEO, Russell Mason, said the organisation was incredibly proud of Sally and Paul. “Suncare is delighted to have not one but two of our volunteers nominated for this national award. Sally and Paul are dedicated to helping the wider community and they light up our customers’ lives with their energy and enthusiasm.”
Sally has been a volunteer at Suncare for many years and has always shown commitment to customer care, taking the initiative to study conditions such as dementia. This online course helped her to further understand the disease in order to support others.
Paul has also been a natural with customers, always ensuring they feel at ease. With his gentle nature and musical talent, Paul creates a comfortable environment for individuals to engage in different activities at the Suncare Centre. Both Sally and Paul are passionate about helping the aged community and their enthusiasm always shines through.
Mr Mason said there are many benefits for seniors to spend quality time connected to their community. “For some individuals, the time they spend with volunteers is invaluable. The daily contact, kindness and support the volunteers provide can change the lives of many seniors living alone.”
Suncare has more than 200 volunteers who donate their time across a range of roles – from helping out in the Meals on Wheels kitchen, to community visits to customers’ homes, and organising a packed schedule of activities at the Centre in Maroochydore.
For further information about Suncare Community Services Volunteer Program please email: info@suncare.org.au, or call 1800 786 227.
