Janet Bradley recently celebrated a 20 year service milestone as a genU volunteer.
During her impressive volunteer journey at Costa House Residential Aged Care, Janet helped many isolated older people stay connected to their community. She wore many hats – from running the kiosk and tea trolley to providing spiritual visits and leading leisure activities.
During COVID-19, she made phone calls to ageing clients in both Residential & Retirement Living to help brighten their day. Today, Janet continues her volunteering journey by visiting isolated seniors through the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme.
Volunteering builds confidence
Janet’s interest in helping people led her to volunteering once her children had grown older. She now credits volunteering with developing her communications skills and ability to connect with different people.
“Volunteering has given me confidence to do other things in my life and to feel that I have the ability to change my life and others as well,” Janet said.
While volunteering in aged care with residents experiencing dementia, Janet would ask non-invasive questions about their past, like what their garden looked like. Seeing their faces light up as they recalled these memories brought joy.
“You can learn so much from volunteering,” Janet said. “Visiting brings up memories for people of the past and helps them move on with their lives. It also helps volunteers learn new skills in communicating with people.”
She also shared an anecdote about a resident who had a bird bath outside their room. Janet would fill it with water to attract birds and the resident would excitedly tell her about the birds who had dropped by. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that can make someone’s day.
“Volunteering is in the reach of anyone who wants to make a difference in other peoples’ lives,” she said.
“I encourage people who may be considering volunteering to grasp the opportunity wholeheartedly. It’s a great chance to help others and share the rewards that will inevitably follow.”
Volunteer with genU
We’re currently looking for volunteers to provide friendship and companionship to older people in the community via the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).
If you’re passionate about making a difference, 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:
Victoria
- Barwon South West
- Grampians
Tasmania
- Northern Tasmania
- Southern Tasmania
Learn more about becoming a volunteer with genU.