Celebrating the efforts of volunteers and the role they play helping build genuine inclusive communities has been the centrepiece of genU’s volunteer recognition this week. 

As part of National Volunteer Week (19-25 May), genU acknowledged the impact of volunteers and their significant contribution in the genU Volunteer Program, giving back to communities across the Barwon region. 

On Tuesday 20 May, about 25 genU volunteers and guests gathered at genU’s Eastern Hub Community Centre in East Geelong to be honoured at an afternoon tea for their amazing contribution in the previous year. 

From 1 July 2024 until 30 April 2025, volunteers acknowledged at the awards event donated 6,000 hours of service, including almost 2,850 visits to socially isolated seniors through programs such as the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) and the Commonwealth Home Support Program. 

genU chief operating officer Brooke Draper presented awards and thanked each volunteer for making a positive impact and enriching clients’ lives. 

“Our volunteers give selflessly and are quietly passionate about the roles they play, helping in a multitude of ways to ensure our clients remain connected to our community,” Brooke said.

“Volunteering creates lasting relationships that helps build genuinely inclusive communities, and giving to others fosters community engagement, connection and belonging.

“At genU, we understand the holistic value of volunteers to further enhance the services and supports we deliver to our people. We are thrilled you have chosen genU to make your impact.” 

Eight volunteers were awarded for their years of service, ranging from 5 to 30 years in giving their support to genU and its clients. 

Frances Hose was celebrated for 30 years of volunteering supporting seniors to feel connected with their community. Frances is an ACVVS volunteer and has donated her time in a variety of roles, including the Eric Hart Centre and Costa House. The highlight has been getting to meet community members and help them feel connected.  

“I’ve enjoyed the interactions with all sorts of different people,” Frances said. 

“If people don’t have anyone who visits them, my visits help to brighten up their day.”

Two volunteers retiring from the program were also acknowledged for their contribution.

genu CEO Clare Amies said the strength and impact of the genU Volunteer program was driven by the commitment of hundreds of people wanting to give back to the community.     

“Our volunteers deliver a vital service, as part of the genU family, and we want to ensure they feel valued, respected and appreciated for the support and joy they provide our clients,” Ms Amies said. 

The mutual benefits from volunteering are well known, according to Clare. 

“Volunteers gain a strong sense of fulfilment when giving back to the community and are deeply invested in whatever role they choose to take on,” she said.     

“This helps residents maintain a connection to community and we know this results in improved mental health and reduces the likelihood of them becoming isolated at a time of their lives when they need to remain connected.”

Clare said since its inception more than 70 years ago, genU had benefited from the strong community spirit volunteers continue to demonstrate through their selfless service. 

“Seeing the humility, the dedication and the strong sense of community among our volunteers, and how they genuinely care for our clients’ wellbeing, is always inspiring.”  

Did you know? 

From 1 July 2024 – 30 April 2025:

• Collective years of service of each 2025 volunteer awardee: 206
• Collective volunteer hours across programs and services: 6,000
• Socially isolated seniors: 221
• Visits to socially isolated seniors: 2,840