• Volunteer Stories

    Rob connects Resthaven residents

    Having a conversation and sharing stories with the residents at Resthaven Westbourne Park is something that volunteer Rob Mutton enjoys very much. ‘It’s wonderful to get to know each person and learn about their life. If we share a laugh and a smile, then even better,’ Rob says. ‘I am doing my little bit and … Continued

    Diane brings her vast skills and experience to volunteering

    When Resthaven Northern Community Services began increasing their number of bus outings last year, due to their popularity, Diane Davies put up her hand to help with the organisation and logistics. As a client herself, Diane had heard about the trips, and with her background in community development she knew this was something she could … Continued

    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 … Continued

    Volunteering brings international students and older people together

    Volunteers Yumeng Han and Shuchan Wang are both studying a Masters in Social Work and, through volunteering with Resthaven, are gaining experience that complements their chosen career path. In turn, residents are enjoying these interactions as well as offering their wise counsel and experience. ‘Growing up in China, my grandparents lived with us,’ Shuchan says. … Continued

    Claire brings her creativity through volunteering

    Leaning into her interests and background in wellness and health, Claire Bosworth explored ways to share her passion and engage with her community. She reached out to Resthaven to enquire about volunteering and was delighted to discover her place with the Resthaven Murray Mallee Hills Community Services ‘Wellness on Wednesdays’ group. ‘We have a lot … Continued

    Volunteer Graham and clients connect

    With a wry smile, his signature hat and a good dose of humour, volunteer Graham Ward connects with clients, such as Judy Potter at Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services. ‘Graham always gets us all laughing,’ Judy says. ‘It’s nice to have a good laugh! He also makes an excellent cup of tea.’ Graham actively … Continued

    Resthaven celebrates volunteers

    Every day, volunteers at Resthaven make a real and tangible difference in enriching the lives of older people. Volunteers have been an important part of Resthaven since the very beginning in 1935. Nationally, Australia recognises volunteers throughout National Volunteer Week, from 20-26 May 2024. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate with … Continued

    With a song and a prayer, Deb volunteers with Resthaven

    For Deb Wotherspoon, one of the most rewarding things is to hear the voices of people singing along with her piano playing. A volunteer at Resthaven Bellevue Heights, Deb, and her bordoodle (border collie/poodle) Fergus, support the ‘Worship for Everyone’ church service. Deb plays the piano during the service and then continues to play afterwards … Continued

    Volunteer for ‘happy’ connections

    ‘Happy Hour’ is a much-loved social event held at Resthaven Mount Gambier each Friday afternoon, and one where more volunteer support is welcomed. ‘Seeing the connections shared between residents and volunteers is heartwarming,’ Mount Gambier Acting Lifestyle Coordinator Shelley van der Linde says. ‘We would love volunteers to join us for Happy Hour, as well … Continued

    A 60-year reunion thanks to four-legged volunteer

    Recently, Resthaven Mitcham resident, Mr Ian Gambling, enjoyed a special 60-year reunion with a former colleague. It’s all thanks to Quaid—the home’s favourite four-legged volunteer! Quaid is a regular visitor to Resthaven Mitcham, where he is accompanied by fellow volunteer, and doting owner, Diana Walters. ‘One aspect that makes Quaid a perfect volunteer, is that … Continued

    ’Tis the season with Resthaven volunteer, Bob

    This Christmas, Resthaven Mitcham volunteer, Bob Wharton, shares a special musical memory. Bob says, ‘I was working part-time back when I started volunteering with Resthaven, about fourteen years ago, and I wanted to contribute to the community in some way.’ ‘I have always enjoyed playing my guitar and singing with people, and I had a … Continued

    Ian’s chaplaincy support ‘a blessing’

    Resthaven Murray Bridge volunteer, Ian Kluge, has lived a life supporting his community, both as a police officer, and as a volunteer. Ian discovered his love of volunteering after taking a leap of faith; ‘I had a long career in the police force, and I wanted to try a different path, one that I found … Continued

    Anusha finds connection through volunteering

    Resthaven Marion Community Services clients have been enjoying extra support in their social groups lately, thanks to volunteer, Anusha Nadeem. In recent years, Anusha and her husband left their home in Pakistan for a new adventure in Australia. Anusha says, ‘It was my husband who first found Resthaven, securing an Enrolled Nurse position with Resthaven … Continued

    Why Resthaven volunteer pianist chooses aged care

    Volunteer pianist, Tony Kelly, enjoys spending his time hitting the keys at Resthaven Malvern, having discovered the joys of aged care approximately 25 years ago. Tony says, ‘I retired in 1997, but it wasn’t until a few years later that I ventured into volunteering in aged care, and I never looked back.’ ‘I was a … Continued

    ‘Let’s connect’ — Bring joy as a Resthaven volunteer

    ‘Volunteers have been at the heart of Resthaven since the beginning, in 1935,’ says Resthaven Manager Volunteer Services, Stacey Thompson. ‘Resthaven volunteers provide that extra level of support for residents and clients, which is immeasurable.’ ‘We would like to hear from people across South Australia, people who have a desire to share a meaningful connection … Continued

    ‘Aged care is rewarding,’ says 10-year volunteer, Jenny Dow

    This year, Jenny Dow celebrated her tenth anniversary as a volunteer with Resthaven Mount Gambier; however, her volunteering years go way back. Jenny says, ‘My first experience was at my youngest daughter’s school 24 years ago. I had extra time and wanted to give back.’ Since then, Jenny has taken on more in her local … Continued