Marlene has lived in the Stawell community for many years. She has been a volunteer in a number of organisations, but decided that she would like to have a change.
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Marlene approached Grampians Community Health with a view to becoming a Do Care volunteer 15 years ago. Over this time she has been matched with four people and has been an important part of their lives.
“It has been a privilege to be welcomed into a person's home and getting to know them,” she said.
“I have had some fun and helped people by being there for them. I also enjoy having some structure in my life. It helps to have a regular commitment most weeks."
Marlene says that she likes being with older people. She emphasises that anyone can be a Do Care volunteer; they just need to have empathy and the ability to get on with people.
"The beauty of Do Care visiting is that you make a little time available to visit someone, and you are rewarded with getting to know another person,” she said.
“It is a chance to hear people's stories, have a laugh together and to know that you have made a difference to their day."
Marlene recommends that people have a go at volunteering and try something new? Do Care volunteering involves regular visiting but the hours are flexible and can change from week to week, depending on people's commitments.
To become a Do Care visitor, ring coordinator Sue Cunningham on 53587400 at Grampians Community Health.
The next volunteer information session is on Monday, August 17. We would love to hear from you.