A chance conversation at his local golf club drove Greg to follow a new path in his community. He has now reached the four-year mark volunteering as a Transport Driver with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) predominantly through genU, with no intention of slowing down.
After moving to Bostocks Creek, just outside of Camperdown, Greg’s focus shifted from full-time work to spending more time with family and enjoying gardening, golfing and fishing. Volunteering wasn’t on his radar until a life-changing chat with a fellow golfer.
“She was working at the Corangamite Shire Council and asked if I was interested in doing some volunteer driving,” Greg said.
Despite recently stepping back from a busy career, Greg was interested in finding out more as he enjoyed driving and meeting people. After hearing about how he would be able to provide a valuable transport service to seniors who had no means of attending non-urgent medical appointments and social outings, Greg began the application process to become a volunteer driver.
In 2020, Greg transitioned from volunteering with the Shire to joining genU and continues to drive local senior people to appointments through the Community Transport Program. This initiative empowers older people to stay active and socially connected by assisting them in attending their usual activities including community groups and medical appointments.
For senior community member, June, the program is an essential service.
“It’s too dangerous on the road for us now and a taxi would break the bank,” she said.
“From our experiences with the program we know we will be able to get someone to take us where we need to go and not worry. It was so easy to talk to the drivers and they drove so beautifully. We can say to our family that we’re okay, we will just ring genU. It’s an absolute relief for them and us.”
Volunteering has been a positive experience for Greg and his friendly nature helps clients feel at ease. Community transport is more than just getting clients to appointments, it allows them to continue to remain independent in their day-to-day life whilst having quality social conversation on the journey.
“In conversation while travelling to their appointment, they tell me of any improvement or deterioration of the illness,” Greg said.
“I get such satisfaction to see the appreciation they show me as I get them to their appointment and back home again.”
“It gives me great pleasure to help these people within the Corangamite Shire community.”
Volunteer with genU
If you have a passion to make a difference, we welcome you to join our incredible volunteer community and make a positive impact by giving back.
Volunteer support can be delivered in person, over the phone or online at one of the following locations across Victoria:
• Barwon
• Mornington Peninsula
• Northern Metro
• Southwest
• Western Metro
Learn more about becoming a volunteer with genU.
