Ann brings purpose and heart to our community
Volunteer Ann Kesting joined the Resthaven Murray Mallee Hills Community Services team last year and has made an indelible impact.
With over four decades of experience as a District Nurse and Community Mental Health Nurse, Ann is a natural fit for visiting older people in their homes.
Ann commenced as a Volunteer with the Resthaven Murray Mallee Hills Men’s Social group. From this starting point, Ann now visits one of the group members at home and they have developed a unique connection.
‘We usually go for a short walk with his little dog and chat along the way,’ Ann says. ‘Since I’ve been visiting, he has fixed the back gate so we can use it. He is better at going out with his mobility aid now. He has also re-established his link with the Men’s Shed with a project he had been thinking about.
‘We have built a good rapport, and we problem solve together, involving the support team when needed. I look forward to our visits.’
Ann’s parents were active in their community, and her father has a community hall named after him: the Lou Kesting Hall, at South Brighton.
‘It’s in the genes,’ Ann says. ‘Mum volunteered with the RDNS, school and church, an original social networker! My father’s legacy lives on through the hall.’
Ann’s association with Resthaven goes back to when her mother was a resident at Resthaven Westbourne Park and more recently when a friend lived at Resthaven Murray Bridge.
‘The staff were really lovely and kind, Mum was happy there,’ Ann says.
‘Resthaven really supports volunteers,’ Ann says. ‘Everyone is so friendly and supportive, they know who I am and ask how I am going even when I forget my name badge!
Ann encourages others to consider volunteering with Resthaven Community Services.
‘I learn so much and I feel like I’m helping,’ Ann says. ‘I am grateful to have these experiences in my life.’
This is just one example of the impact volunteering has in our communities. Resthaven welcomes more volunteers. We are keen to hear how you would like to be involved.
If you or someone you know would like to connect through volunteering, we would like to hear from you. For more information, call Volunteer Services on 8373 9036, email volunteer@resthaven.asn.au or visit the Resthaven Volunteering webpage.