Volunteer Stories

Here are some volunteer stories that may inspire you to start your own volunteering journey.

Matt

Even as a young boy, I always loved space and astronomy. Now I get to fulfill my dream by volunteering at the Perth Observatory as host of the night sky tours. I want to get other kids interested in this fascinating world of astronomy. I’ve learnt a lot on the job, that’s what makes it interesting. One night I was using a high powered eyepiece for a telescope and the view was terrible. Another volunteer pointed out that the eyepiece had two covers and I’d only removed one…that’s why the view was so terrible!

Tony

I have an engineering and technical education background and for the past two years I have been volunteering at the Victoria Park Digital Hub. I am passionate about patiently helping the folks who drop by to use technology which is anything from the Internet to a smart-phone. I also assist with technical difficulties and provide practical guidance in writing and submitting on-line resumes for jobseekers. I’ve learnt that people of all ages and backgrounds learn at their own pace and to never judge someone because they find technology challenging…everyone has a story.

Lesley

I volunteer as a Guide and Support Person for the Cancer Council Western Australia at Fiona Stanley Hospital. I spend time with the most incredibly brave people that are waiting around for their cancer treatment. Sometimes I talk to them. Sometimes I just listen. Sometimes I make them cups of tea and set them up with a blanket and a magazine. They are small things but they make the person just that little bit more comfortable in what is a trying time for them in their life. I started volunteering to give back something to the community but the irony is that every day when I leave the hospital I always think I have gained more than I could ever give. Helping others in need is good for my soul.

Dina

I have volunteered for 11 years at St John of God Cancer Centre in Subiaco and for 6 years at the Mary Chester Club Day Centre for Alzheimer‘s WA. I gain so much pleasure from making just a little difference in somebody’s life and it’s my way of giving back to the community. Whilst on holiday in January two members from the Mary Chester Club just happened to be on the same cruise!

Annie

I’m a volunteer coach for the Special Olympics Basketball team. The incredible people that I coach continually inspire me with the spirit and joy they bring to each training session. A recent highlight for me was when the team got to play at the Perth Arena during half-time at a Wildcats game. I’m not sure if they were more excited about playing in front of 13,000 fans or getting the opportunity to high-five the Wildcats as they came back onto court. Next stop is the National Games in Adelaide in April.

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