Volunteers in top form at the winning post
National Volunteer Week, from Monday 17th to Sunday 23rd May 2021, is Australia’s opportunity to recognise and celebrate all those who volunteer in Australia. Resthaven recognises and thanks all volunteers for their important contribution.
‘Volunteers engage and connect with people supported by Resthaven in many varied and interesting ways,’ says Stacey Thompson, Manager Volunteer Services.
‘Resthaven Murray Bridge volunteer, Jan Menz, is one such person. Jan and Mr Robert Lynch talk all things horse racing. Robert has three grandsons in the racing industry, two of whom are jockeys and one a trainer.’
‘Before each visit with Robert, Jan follows up on their racing form and gives Robert, who has a vision impairment, an update. For a few years now, this has also included keeping track of Robert’s Phantom Race Betting and his ‘winnings’. There are no barriers for this punter!’
‘Together Jan and Robert are also involved in the footy tipping competition and maintaining Robert’s pin board with the football results, for all residents to follow.’
‘This match is a photo finish!’
‘Robert is our longest residing resident on-site, and at the age of 96, we have never seen him happier!’ explains Lifestyle Coordinator, Soraya Fitzgerald.
‘Jan also supports a range of activities at Resthaven Murray Bridge, including the 500 card game with three residents who really enjoy playing together.’
‘As you can see, Jan makes a real difference in the lives of people living at Resthaven Murray Bridge.’
‘The special connections and interactions that we see between people are truly wonderful.’
‘Jan is just one of the volunteers with Resthaven Murray Bridge, and we welcome others to join the team.’
For more information about volunteering, phone (08) 8373 9036, email volunteer@resthaven.asn.au or go to www.resthaven.asn.au/volunteering-careers/volunteer.
Established in 1935, Resthaven is a South Australian not-for-profit aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church in Australia.
Every day, Resthaven shares the lives and wisdom of older people and their carers, opening doors to the full range of aged care service options available.
Services are provided throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Fleurieu Peninsula, lower Barossa region and the Limestone Coast of South Australia.