A Volunteer Story from Grace Gardens
There are as many reasons for becoming a volunteer as there are people who volunteer, and at Twilight we are so fortunate to have many wonderful individuals who give freely of their time and energy, supporting our residents in living meaningful and fulfilled lives.
We thank Natalie from Grace Gardens for sharing her deeply personal and inspirational volunteer experience with us.
My father was a resident for three years at Grace Gardens. I saw how hard the staff worked to make residents lives comfortable and meaningful. During Dad’s final weeks which were heartbreaking for us as a family, I was drawn to wanting to volunteer. Grace Gardens feels like a home and the residents and staff a family. Everyone was so kind and supportive. I wanted to “pay it forward” and be there for other residents and their families. Under Twilight’s Family Model of Care the focus on respecting and valuing residents is evident. The high quality holistic care, maintains a resident’s identity and dignity, which is important to me. I wanted to contribute to this. I have recently retired from teaching and could see my skills would be useful.
It has been my privilege to get to know so many of the residents and staff over the time this was Dad’s home. Part of my desire to volunteer was to continue the friendships and relationships with people I had gotten to know. I didn’t feel I could just never come back. I know from my conversations with residents, they appreciate the ongoing visits and companionship volunteering can provide. There are a couple of ladies I have a strong connection to.
I work with the art therapists on a Wednesday. I enjoy the chats with residents, getting to know new people and making sure residents can participate at their level and interest.
Volunteering has helped me to cope with the grief of losing Dad. I have a deep appreciation for aged care staff and residents and find volunteering to be very rewarding.
Find our more about the Twilight Family Model of Care HERE.
