For over 30 years, our volunteer community has supported families in the toughest of times – with a helping hand, knowing smile or welcome distraction.
To celebrate National Volunteer Week (15 – 21 May), we spoke with three of our volunteers – Jas, Tabitha and Mia – around their reasons why.
Volunteers like Jas, Tabitha and Mia are a big help to families whose worlds have been turned upside down by illness and injury. Here’s what they had to say.
Q: Why did you decide to volunteer for the Children’s Hospital Foundation?
Jas: To help make a difference in the lives of young children and make sure no child feels left out when it comes to health and wellbeing.
Tabitha: I am passionate about assisting paediatric patients and their families. When the opportunity opened for operating theatre support, it was the perfect fit! It has enabled me to prepare for a future career in the health field and build on my interpersonal skills.
Mia: To understand the many different levels it takes to support a sick child and their family.
Q: What’s your favourite part about volunteering for the Children’s Hospital Foundation?
Jas: The fact that, when you are there you are part of a team that has the same collective goal and mission – to help better the lives of the patients and their families. It doesn’t matter what job, position, social standing or any factor you may hold outside of Children’s Hospital Foundation – when you’re volunteering, you are part of a group that has a common aim.
Tabitha: Volunteering in holding bay has allowed me to support parents and carers during an emotional period. I have always been inclined to help others and this role has enabled me to show compassion towards patients and their families. It is always wonderful meeting different nurses each shift – they are always very supportive!
Mia: To see the children, their siblings and their parents finding the joy and fun in the little things.
This National Volunteer Week, we want to express our immense gratitude to all our volunteers. Together, we can be the difference every kid deserves.
Want to join Jas, Tabitha and Mia? You can register your interest or find out more about our volunteer community here.