Welcome to our Q&A session with our dedicated Volunteer Team Leader! Get ready to dive into the inspiring journey of the person who guides and motivates our volunteer team.
1. What inspired you to start working with Suncare’s volunteers?
I LOVE my job. My background as a Diversional Therapist allowed me the privilege of setting up lifestyle programs in Residential Aged Care homes. I have always engaged volunteers because as the saying goes, many hands make light work, and the more volunteers available to help, the more choice we could offer the residents and improve their connection to the community.
2. How do you recruit volunteers, and what qualities do you look for in potential volunteers?
Recruiting volunteers is always best to come from word of mouth from a current Suncare volunteer who is happy in their role and wants to get the word out about Suncare and the need for volunteers within the local community.
3. What challenges do volunteers often face when working with ageing customers, and how do you support them in overcoming these challenges?
If you choose to volunteer within the Community Services sector is usually because you care, and you want to make a difference to people’s lives, to feel a sense of purpose. It can be challenging when there is a health decline of a customer who you are in regular contact with.
4. In your opinion, what makes Suncare Community Services’ volunteer program unique or special?
WE CARE! We are all about the volunteers and our customers and ensuring we provide professional, quality, timely and friendly service throughout Fitzroy, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast and North Brisbane. We care about supporting our volunteers as much as we can, setting them up for success in their volunteer roles. We aim to break down barriers to becoming a volunteer, to offer the training needed. Suncare could not do the work that we do without our valued volunteers. They are all stars!
5. What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
This year’s National Volunteer Week theme sums this up perfectly ‘Something for Everyone’. There is a volunteer role to suit everyone’s unique talents and personality. So, give it a go, you may learn some new skills and meet some new friends too.
Are you interested in volunteering with Suncare?
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact our Volunteer Team Leader at 1800 786 227 or email info@suncare.org.au.
