Volunteer Stories

Bright and happy: Joe Walsh, volunteer at Karana

Joe WalshJoe Walsh has been volunteering at Baptcare’s Karana Community in Kew for over seven years. Together with Karana’s lifestyle coordinator he formed a carers' support group. This group supports families of the Karana residents and takes them on monthly outings. Through one of Joe’s contacts, a Memorial Garden was set up for reflection and special services at the facility. Joe often assists with activities and is a great help to the coordinating staff. He knows all residents and staff at Karana and holds a special place in people’s hearts.

Residents were asked, “what does Joe mean to you?”; these are some of their replies:

“There is a man called Joe Walsh, who has to be Karana’s best ever. Joe is everyone’s friend. He is a volunteer of many years standing. He is always bright and happy. We thank God for Joe Walsh.” – Phyl Taylor.
“Joe Walsh, how thankful we are for him for all that he does for us and all that his friendship means to us. Caring, reliable and always there when we need him. To all at Karana he is like family. We thank God for all that he does for us.” – Frida Kingdom.

Dawn, a Caring Friend volunteer

Dawn is one of our first Caring Friend Volunteers. The Caring Friends program has commenced in the Bairnsdale region and is expanding into other regional areas. Through the program, Dawn was matched with a Baptcare Community Aged Care client (Lena). The Dawn and Lena have regular contact and have become friends. Dawn visits Lena regularly. Through this program, many isolated people are reconnected to their community.

Dawn and Lena

Hilda, volunteer at Westhaven Community

Passionate volunteer, Hilda, generously donates one morning every week to assist the residents at Baptcare’s Westhaven Community.

Hilda is a single mother to three adult children and leads a busy life with two grandchildren and a part-time job. Although her hectic lifestyle leaves little time to herself, she finds volunteering at Westhaven adds another dimension to her life.

“It feels good when you can do something for someone else; they (residents) love it and are happy to show you they appreciate your efforts. I really value the connections I’ve made with the residents, staff and fellow volunteers…they have really enriched my life,” said Hilda.

Volunteering has opened the door to new friendships and has enabled Hilda to give back to her local community.

“The residents at Westhaven are already in my heart and I’m grateful that I’ve been able to give back to a community that has also supported me,” said Hilda.

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