Growing together: Gardening club at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park

The resident garden plots at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park are beginning to flourish – and it’s thanks to a combined effort of both residents and Resthaven volunteer Jeannie Peace.

‘We are grateful for Jeannie’s support,’ Cheryl Bajszi, Lifestyle Coordinator at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park says. ‘In the short time since Jeannie has joined us, the gardening club has replanted the gardens in the court yards. People are enjoying getting their hands dirty and being actively involved in the development of their space.’

Jeannie is enjoying being involved and helping lead the way.

‘It’s wonderful to see the engaged faces of residents as we potter in the garden together,’ Jeannie says. ‘It is very rewarding, and I get as much out of volunteering as what I give.’

Following a 15-year career with Resthaven, Jeannie has joined as a volunteer. She worked in a variety of roles and areas at Resthaven Bellevue Heights, including administration reception in residential services and coordinating retirement living, all of which involved direct contact with older people – supporting them to live well. Now, Jeannie shares her love of gardening with residents.

‘I always thought I would come back to Resthaven to volunteer,’ Jeannie says.

In her short time volunteering, Jeannie has also joined the volunteer ‘Pack n Chat’ group, helping to put together 799 ‘Welcome Packs’ for new retirement living residents, as well as being involved with Resthaven and Annesley Junior School’s ‘Big and Little Gardening Club’.

Resthaven welcomes more people to volunteer and to share interests and experiences. If you or someone you know would like to connect through volunteering, we would like to hear with you.

For more information, call Volunteer Services on 8373 9036, email volunteer@resthaven.asn.au or visit the Resthaven Volunteering webpage.