Volunteering is at the heart of most Not For Profit operators in retirement living and aged care.
National Volunteer Week is from 18-24 May, with this year’s theme is Your Year to Volunteer.
There are always opportunities to volunteer, such as being a mini-bus driver, a walker, internet technology tutor or providing social support to the lonely.
If you think you can make a difference you will. The work is important but the benefit for you is immense.
Catholic retirement living, aged care and disability services organisation VMCH looks forward to celebrating its 440 volunteers, including Jan Bird (pictured above).
Jan has been volunteering at VMCH’s Heathmont Op Shop for the past five years. She became familiar with the shop as a customer, visiting regularly to purchase props and costumes for her theatre company.
Now on the other side of the register, Jan volunteers her time serving customers, decorating shop windows, crafting, and sorting stock.
“What I enjoy most is talking to and helping the people who come into the shop and being part of a team,” Jan says.
This year is significant for Jan, after she was nominated for a 2026 Inspire Inclusion award. The awards, part of VMCH’s International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations, acknowledge people who champion women’s inclusion and live out our values of Love, Joy, Hospitality and Courage.
“I felt very honoured that someone had nominated me and that I had that effect on people. I take great pride in volunteering and love working at the Heathmont site, and love all the girls that I work with,” she says.
VMCH will pay tribute to its volunteers at an annual Volunteer’s Celebration and Service Recognition Luncheon on 18 May, celebrating 33 people who have served five to 30 years with the organisation.
Bron Summers, VMCH Senior Manager Volunteer Engagement, says this year is extra special, given 2026 is also International Year of the Volunteer.
“I’m inspired by the passion and pride volunteers like Kitty and Jan bring to our organisation,” Bron says.
“They show genuine care in everything they do, sharing their warmth and dedication as part of VMCH’s extended workforce and community. We thank them, and all our volunteers, words can’t express how grateful we are for them every day.”