MannaCare appreciates all the work our volunteers do. Their involvement across all our services not only helps to enhance care for residents and clients, but also provides a wonderful link to the community.

Richard recently shared his thoughts about volunteering, his interests and what he is passionate about in an interview for MannaCare News – Winter.

How long have you been volunteering at MannaCare?

Since October 2018. I decided to volunteer after reading an advert seeking volunteers for MannaCare.

What is your volunteering role?

I spend a couple of hours talking with residents at Doncaster Melaleuca Lodge about anything that will engage them. This includes sport, politics, current events, their past activities, basically anything that will get them talking. However, during COVID restrictions I was unable to do this.

Additionally, last year Tanya Warms, Volunteer Co-ordinator asked me if I was interested in becoming involved in a writing group for carers. I was, and I became one of the tutors along with John Millar, another volunteer (both pictured above). This role involved facilitating the group’s Zoom meetings and assisting Tanya and John in developing a program. It ran for eight weeks and was a successful pilot program, encouraging carers to write and speak about their caring experiences.

What do you enjoy about volunteering at MannaCare?

I enjoy being able to assist the residents in a small way. In my case, it involves discussion, engaging and connecting with them. Volunteering gives me a sense of satisfaction knowing that I am doing something helpful.

Interests

My interests include writing, lawn bowls, my family and most sports. I enjoy personal writing and I am trying to put together stories about my life which I can pass onto my family. I am a tutor at U3a in creative writing, and from time-to-time I write stories for Footy Almanac, an online sporting magazine. I have been a member of Donvale Bowls Club since 2006 and I enjoy the game and the friendships that have developed during this time for my wife, Margaret (also a member) and me. I am also a keen Sydney Swans supporter, having been a member for many years.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about family (three children and three grandchildren). They are very dear to us and we try to be as much a part of their lives as we can. Also, sport and the hope of seeing Australia become a more sharing country which is prepared to play its part in maintaining the health of the planet.

In my spare time…

You will find me on the Bowling Green, reading, in a cinema or possibly doing some gardening, trying to maintain my garden.