General News
19 May, 2024
Volunteer Week: Vibrancy in partnerships
STRONG and committed community partnerships with engaged and caring volunteers are part of the vibrant life of Boort District Health. Every day, volunteers help with the delivery of meals on wheels and assist staff with activities and excursions for...
STRONG and committed community partnerships with engaged and caring volunteers are part of the vibrant life of Boort District Health.
Every day, volunteers help with the delivery of meals on wheels and assist staff with activities and excursions for aged care residents.
Among them is Kathy Lowrie who has been part of the volunteer team for eight years.
“I started volunteering to give back to the community and I really enjoy it,” said Kathy.
“People receiving meals on wheels are always on for a chat, welcoming us into their homes and happy to see us,” Kathy said.
“And the residents at Boort District Health love to share in the activities we put together or taking them for a drive around town, often telling stories of the streets we travel when they were youngsters.”
BDH chief executive officer Donna Doyle said volunteers were highly valued within the health service.
“We have long held a belief that community partnerships ensure that the health service remains a strong vibrant organisation,” Donna said.
“To improve the health outcomes of our community takes a lot of work and we can’t do it alone.
“The ability to partner effectively with individuals and other organisations is absolutely essential to build a healthy community.
“Strong partnerships build stronger communities and allows for the sharing of expertise, skills and resources.”
Among the many volunteers are members of the ladies’ auxiliary, formed 90 years ago and have raised more than $400,000 for improvements at the local hospital.
“The auxiliary meets once a month and together plan funding projects for the health service.”
The main focus of the auxiliary is the op-shop in Godfrey Street, the community donating unwanted clothing and treasures for sale to their next owners.
BDH has also been a part of the Murray to Moyne bicycle relay since 2007.
During this period it has raised almost $120,000 for the urgent care centre.
Donna said BDH had enjoyed a long relationship with the local school. “Children regularly visit residents where they sing and entertain everyone,” she said
“Residents also enjoy visiting the school and have taken great interest in the community garden. Boort District Health sponsors the annual debutante ball, it is a wonderful gala evening.
“Following the Debutante Ball each year, Boort District Health holds an old time ball, where the debutantes and their partners show their gowns and demonstrate their dancing skills. Residents enjoy joining in with the dancing.”
Donna said BDH always welcomed new volunteers. “They all bring so much to the life of Boort District Health, our residents and clients. And they allow our residents to stay connected with their local community.”
As long-time volunteer Kathy Lowrie said: “As volunteers we have so much enjoyment seeing the bright and smiling faces of residents joining in the activities
“The more volunteers, the more great activities residents can enjoy and that’s always so important.”