Jann and Pat Ernest enjoy opportunities to “give back” to the community through volunteering. They are both so very adaptable and have volunteered in a number of service areas. Whether it is at DML, Leisure and Lifestyle, working remotely or supporting our Respite or Corporate areas, they can just about do any role asked of them.

“We enjoy their company” – Jann and Pat Ernest

Tanya Warms, Volunteers’ Coordinator observes, “Pat is always up for a challenge” and “Jann always brings a smile and TLC to the residents.”

What do you enjoy the most about engaging with the residents and clients?

Jann: Residents are a wonderful source of wisdom and calmness. Assisting them and listening to them is a wonderful aspect of our volunteer work.

Why have you chosen to give back through volunteering?

Pat: Jann and I have had a fortunate life. Now in retirement, we have an opportunity to give back to the community. Collectively it offers us a great sense of fulfilment and purpose. We hope that, in some small way, we are improving the quality of life of others.

During the lockdowns, what was the most challenging aspect about not being onsite?

Jann: Interacting with staff and residents. Whilst it was great to be provided with tasks to carry out remotely, it is always terrific coming onsite and experiencing the vibe at MannaCare.

What do you do when you are not volunteering at MannaCare?

Pat: During COVID very little, but generally trying to keep safe throughout the past couple of years. However, we were fortunate to be able to pivot remotely. Jann knitted fiddle muffs for residents and I continued creating Biographies. In between this we have joined the Willsmere Kitchen Garden, a local community garden, recently picking our first harvest.

What is the best thing about volunteering at MannaCare?

Pat: When you volunteer at MannaCare you can see and feel the positive culture that exists. The staff go out of their way, or do more than is expected, to develop a great workplace culture. MannaCare also went out of their way to keep connected and engaged to us housebound volunteers during the lockdown. This meant a lot to us.

Closing Comments from Volunteers’ Coordinator Tanya

“Jann is a great listener and has a very caring attitude to those with whom she interacts with. The residents warm to her immediately,” while Pat has good attention to detail, revealing “when he writes the biographies, he always does his own research, finding more information that is missing from the story, such as a photo, which is always appreciated by the families.”