Our volunteers are truly amazing, hear their stories..
Daphne Fitzpatrick
Daphne has been a volunteer with Anglican Care since 1996. Now a Retirement Living resident, she has a long history and connection with Anglican Care, having worked for the organisation prior to her retirement.
Daphne volunteers at a number of Anglican Care’s residential aged care homes where she assists with lifestyle and wellbeing programs, including bus trips, sing-a-longs, socialising with residents, reminiscing and as a popular ‘trolley lady’. Daphne is also a member of the Anglican Care Hunter Auxiliary, which holds numerous fundraising events throughout the year to help fund initiatives that contribute to improving the quality of life of our residents and consumers. This dedicated group has raised over $500,000 for Anglican Care since 1998!
In 2013, her commitment and compassion was recognised when she was named as a finalist in the Volunteer category of the Aged and Community Services (ACS) State Awards for Excellence.
However, while she appreciated the honour, ‘people person’ Daphne says that the real reward of volunteering is being able satisfy her genuine desire to help people in any way she can.
Stephen Mendham
Stephen has been volunteering with Anglican Care for over a decade now. In that time he’s been a regular at our C A Brown residential aged care home as well as Carey Bay Gardens. More recently he’s been volunteering in the community with people receiving a home care package.
Stephen is able to connect with people on a very personal level, always taking the time to find out about their previous interests and past-times, then seeking out ways in which they can once again enjoy those interests.
He often goes out of his way to find that special book, a much-loved movie or record or a favourite piece of sheet music for those who can still play a musical instrument. From taking people on outings, assisting with meals, chatting, sharing memories and encouraging people to participate in activities to brightening someone’s day with fresh cut flowers from his garden, Stephen happily gives his time and energy to help improve the quality of life of our residents and consumers.