It’s National Volunteer Week, so we are celebrating the amazing achievements of incredible volunteers. This year, Brian has been nominated for the Minister for Health Volunteer Awards. He will join hundreds of other volunteers to be considered for this prestigious award.
We asked him all about his volunteering work.
What do you do as a volunteer for Your Community Health?
I drive the bus when needed, to take people to and from social groups and on outings. It means that people who would otherwise be socially isolated can get out and about and meet with other people.
I also help out in the Men’s group. I look forward to coming to the Community Centre. I interact with the men in the Wednesday group and we have great banter. On a Friday I help out in the Fresh program where I pick up fruit and veg from Secondbite, then distribute it evenly for the ladies to take home. I enjoy seeing them get so much pleasure from this.
I’ve been volunteering here for seven years.
What do you like most about volunteering?
The staff that I work with and seeing the pleasure the clients get from me helping them, particularly when they laugh at my jokes!
[We know this is true! Brian carries out all of these tasks with a smile, even if he is having a bad day himself, he always makes the staff and clients feel happy. He is always quick with a joke and nothing is too much trouble for him.]
What have you learnt from volunteering?
That lots of other people are more needy than I am in life.
Why did you choose to volunteer at Your Community Health?
They’re the only ones that would have me!
[Brian is always joking!]
It is in my local area. After retiring I wanted something to do that was useful and beneficial to my community and myself.
What message do you have for people who are thinking about volunteering?
You meet great people and give much joy to the elderly people. You should give it a go.
How did you feel when you were nominated for the award?
I was really pleased – it’s very nice to be considered.
The Minister of Health Volunteer Awards highlight and celebrate volunteering and its significant contribution to public healthcare in Victoria. They recognise the individuals and teams who demonstrate outstanding dedication and commitment to public healthcare through volunteering. Congratulations to everyone nominated – and good luck Brian!