Handmade hearts: Julie’s support shines through
When Julie Mullighan volunteers with Resthaven Bellevue Heights she brings a calm, reassuring presence with a quiet focus.
As residents arrive for Church Service, they receive a warm welcome from the team, and Julie shows them to their seats. During the service she offers support by turning the pages of the hymn books for those who welcome a little more help, and after, supports the offer of tea and coffee – an important social ritual.
Volunteering was a natural progression for Julie, whose late mother, June, lived at Resthaven Bellevue Heights.
‘I visited Mum often, and some of the visits would be quite short depending on how she was that day,’ Julie shares. ‘One of the things we often did together was go to the church service.’
‘It made sense that I could visit Mum, then volunteer, and then pop in and see her again before I left,’ Julie says. ‘It’s been lovely getting to know the other residents. There are a couple of ladies who like to joke, so I always make sure I bring in something funny for them to read.’
Showcasing her creativity and kindness, Julie has recently made beautiful fabric hearts for each resident to hang on their door or in their room for Christmas.
‘I enjoyed making them,’ Julie says. ‘I just do a few hours at a time.’
‘It’s a little something – especially for residents who might not have family nearby.’
Previously, Julie has also knitted and crocheted Christmas wreaths and stockings for residents. Her talents and warmth make Resthaven Bellevue Heights a richer, more vibrant environment.
Julie also volunteers with the Flinders Medical Centre.
‘Volunteering encourages me out of the house and to connect with others,’ Julie says. ‘This is important for all of us and is something I look forward to each week.’
Julie’s story is just one example of the meaningful 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 (08) 8373 9036, email volunteer@resthaven.asn.au or visit the Resthaven Volunteering webpage.