We express our gratitude to the volunteers who selflessly give their time to those in need, ensuring they are heard, seen, and acknowledged.
Andrew was introduced to Ron when he signed up to volunteer with Catholic Healthcare to fulfil 120 hours of community engagement for his counselling diploma.
Andrew first noticed the opportunity to volunteer in the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) with Catholic Healthcare through his university's careers portal and decided to sign up.
Soon after, Andrew put his counselling skills to use when he was paired up with a new resident at Emmaus Village Kemps Creek, Ron, who was withdrawn and very depressed.
‘When Andrew met Ron, Ron was curled up on his bed, not wanting to live and did not include himself in any activities at the home. He was estranged from a close family member and quite angry at the world,’ said Louise Kirkton, Volunteer Coordinator.
A strong friendship developed between the two, but only after Andrew gently persisted in learning about Ron’s life and interests.
‘The question that finally brought him out of his shell was, “What was his favourite childhood hobby?” That is when he finally sat up on his bed as he thought about that question,’ said Andrew. ‘I stayed silent as he gathered his thoughts. “Model shipbuilding” he said.'
Volunteer Andrew Petersen
A model ship was soon organised by Emmaus Retirement Village for Andrew and Ron to build together.
Andrew was aware that Ron had lost nearly all his important connections in life, so he set about working with Ron to reach out and repair these relationships.
Andrew encouraged Ron to write a letter expressing all the things he wished to say to them. Andrew then passed on the letter to the family member, and wonderfully, the relationship began to heal.
‘Andrew has been able to help Ron open up and express his feelings. This has enabled him to reconcile his own feelings and actions towards others, gain some inner peace, and want to live again!’ said Louise.
'Ron has since re-connected with family, and he is now involving himself in activities at the home and happy to be a part of it,’ she said.
‘When I asked Ron at the end of my visits what was significant/memorable [about them], he said, "It was my first visit." I kept asking questions, wanting to engage and hours later, he realised I was not going to "give up on him," said Andrew.
Andrew set about learning about Ron’s life, which he was open to sharing. Andrew would fill in the gaps, such as where he lived, the ships he worked on as a shipbuilder, and the places he visited, to help Ron recall more of his journey.
He also encouraged Ron to reach out to the occupational therapists to help him achieve his goal of walking again.
Of his time with Ron, Andrew said he would definitely encourage people to volunteer.
‘The benefits go both ways—they feel valued, heard, and acknowledged, and you feel humbled by being involved in another’s life journey,’ said Andrew.
‘There is so much trauma that has not been healed/touched, and by asking just a few questions, the grief, pain, and regrets outpour. They want to know that they mattered and that their contribution made a difference,’ he said
If you, too, would like to make a difference in the lives of those in need, please consider becoming a volunteer with Catholic Healthcare by calling 1300 992 684 or emailing volunteers@chcs.com.au