• Volunteer Graham and clients connect

    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 sought out volunteering and has found the engagement with clients and staff at Resthaven suits him really well. He also volunteers with Trees for Life.

    ‘It’s amazing the stories everyone has to share,’ Graham says.

    Graham and staff at Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services work together to run sessions featuring activities such as painting, colouring and crafts, as well as playing cards and board games, watching movies, and listening to music.

    Judy enjoys the group sing-a-longs.

    ‘We sometimes sing along to the old war songs, or other tunes – something everyone knows,’ Judy says.

    ‘The clients tell us what they want,’ Graham says. ‘Gin Rummy is also a favourite.’

    Another enjoyable activity is to go for a walk down to the pond along Linear Park and feed the birds. Judy, a retired teacher and volunteer dog obedience trainer with the Guide Dogs, particularly enjoys this, watching the birds and sometimes patting dogs that are out for a walk with their owners.

    Resthaven is very appreciative of Graham’s support and the connections he forges with clients.

    ‘Graham is part of the team,’ Nicola Grose, Therapy Assistant with Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services says. ‘He brings that extra something to the group that is hard to put into words.’

    Resthaven welcomes more people to enrich the lives of older people. This may be through companionship and shared interests. For example, our knitting group at Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services would love a volunteer to join them. Join us in sharing this story and spreading the word about volunteering.

    For more information, call Volunteer Services on 8373 9036, or email volunteer@resthaven.asn.au. Alternatively, you can visit the volunteering page.