A warm congratulations to Pat Wheeler who has been nominated for ‘Volunteer of the Year 2020’ in the upcoming Manningham Civic Awards and is a volunteer at MannaCare.

Every fortnight for over 30 years, Pat has played the piano at MannaCare for the Manningham Uniting Church Services held at MannaCare for the residents. This is, however, only one aspect to Pat’s volunteering as she has also volunteered in other areas at MannaCare, most recently in the corporate office.

Tanya Warms, Volunteers’ Coordinator explains more. “I personally value the inspiring contributions of Pat, who has not only volunteered for our organisation for over 30 years, but has given years of input into our community though her love of music and desire to help those less fortunate than herself. Never one to boast about her achievements, she demonstrates kindness and compassion to all of our residents and staff and has made a real difference to the lives of those who are in our care.”

This award recognises those quiet achievers who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring society and this is Pat to a tee. She was surprised to receive notification of her nomination stating, “I know that so many other people are changing the lives of others through volunteering, so “Why me”.

Hence, it has been a humbling experience for Pat.

“My main support has been to provide music for services of worship with a group of other volunteers from Manningham Uniting Church. For me, this began in the 1980’s in the Doncaster Nursing home and later continued in the ‘new’ Melaleuca Lodge. It has always been a great opportunity to spend time with the residents. I feel this is a nomination for all the MannaCare volunteers and I feel humbled to be representing MannaCare at the event.”

Once again, congratulations and well done to Pat for her wonderful contribution to MannaCare and the community in general.

Her final comments, “We look forward to being able to be actively involved with the residents again.”

We look forward to having all our volunteers back on site when restrictions ease for aged care.