VOLUNTEERING the heart and spirit o a community
Reach out to people who live with mental illness
Following an accident that left him out of action for seven weeks, Jim began thinking about the many people who, through illness or injury, lose contact with family and friends and find themselves lonely and isolated. Wanting to help out, Jim
discovered Compeer, a Special Work of the St Vincent de Paul Society, which matches volunteers with people who are living with a mental illness. Volunteers meet with the
people living with a mental illness for a minimum of four hours a month as a way of providing social interaction and breaking down the isolation. Being in his mid-fifties, Jim was
matched with similarly aged Thomas. Two and a half years on and neither of
other much better. My wife and mother both met him also after we went to a musical performance together. "Thomas is so easy to get
along with and because he is about my age, we have similar interests too,” says Jim. Having no experience
them have looked back. Jim said, “We meet up once a week
for coffee to catch up on what has been happening with our families, work, sport, politics, music, and anything that comes up. Occasionally we go and see a movie or a performance as well. “Over time we have gotten to know each
Health Hints from Rehab on the Move
with mental illness before, Jim has developed a greater understanding about people living with a mental illness and a great love of volunteering since volunteering with Compeer.
Jim said, “I did not expect to get such
a great sense of satisfaction in doing something for someone else. "It is very rewarding.”
Compeer is in need of volunteers, so if
you have some spare time to make a real difference contact Compeer on 9568 0295.
Cantonese-speaking volunteers needed The Eastwood Chinese Senior Citizens'
Club is looking for Cantonese-speaking people who would like to volunteer on Wednesday mornings to help with social activities for Chinese seniors. If you can help by volunteering even one
day a month, you'll be helping to make life brighter for a senior who otherwise might not have the opportunity to go out often The group meets every Wednesday
morning at the St Philips Anglican Church Hall on the corner of Shaftsbury Road and Rutledge Street, Eastwood. The first Wednesday of the month the group celebrates birthday parties at restaurants in the area. To volunteer, please phone Wilson on
0416 108 998. The group is also preparing to celebrate Lunar New Year at Eastwood Plaza February 15, 2014
98 Seniors & Care Guide 2014
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