Len Lyndon looks forward to his one day a month volunteering at Central Gippsland Health.
A semi-retired bus driver, Len takes disability clients on a day’s outing … to see a film, go tenpin bowling, shopping or even swimming. The clients decide the activity.
“We have a great day out,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun. The clients love going to different places and the other volunteers are terrific.”
Once a month, Len collects the CGH bus from Maffra and travels around Wellington Shire picking up between 10 and 15 clients who are part of the CGH Planned Activity Groups program. They head to the Sale campus where they all meet and decide the day’s activity.
At day’s end, Len drops everyone to their front door – tired but happy.
CGH Community Services always needs more volunteers, according to Team Leader for Home and Social Support Services, Celia Johnston.
“We use volunteers in many ways in the Planned Activity Groups,” Celia said. “Our volunteers assist with a range of activities including crafts, gardening groups, serving out meals and morning and afternoon teas as well as being a support to our staff and clients.
“Once a month, we travel to different areas that are accessible for a day trip and we need volunteers to support our clients and staff. The day is about enjoyment for our clients but everyone has fun.”
Celia said all volunteers were given an induction before being “eased gently” into the groups. Locality Officers also teach the volunteers as required.
“This system works very well and we never ask more from a volunteer than they are able to contribute.
“To volunteer with CGH, you need a clear police check and a willingness to help others. You can devote as much or as little time as they are willing to contribute.”
Len is one of a few volunteer bus drivers assisting with the disability groups as well as the ‘Out to Lunch’ groups.
“We ensure our volunteers are an integral part of the day and don’t have any out of pocket expenses,” Celia said. “We reimburse meals as well as any entry tickets they may need to purchase.”
If you would like to volunteer, contact either Celia on 5143 8835 or Community Network and Volunteer Support Officer, Jude Deedman on 5143 8833.
For more details contact Lynne Smith on 0437 918234 or email lsmith@wordwisecommunications