WHILE generations apart, age has not been a deterring factor for two South East volunteers who provide valuable support to the region’s Country Health Connect service.
The organisation’s youngest Mount Gambier volunteer Kristy Rostig, 19 and oldest volunteer Joan Osmond, 90, met for the first time recently to discuss the importance of volunteering in the South East.
Ms Osmond has volunteered at the Mount Gambier and District Hospital for over 24 years, currently serving as a Rainbow Club assistant, working with special needs clients.
Ms Osmond started volunteering at the hospital after retiring from the board of Miroma – a position she held for 17 years – and has over a decade of experience volunteering for cancer support causes.
“I like to be busy and give back to the community in my own way,” she said.
“I love being involved with the people and clients, they are sweethearts.
“Some of them are a tad younger than me but it is such a rewarding experience.”
Ms Rostig volunteers her time four days a week as an administration assistant.
“When I first started volunteering I was studying at school so I thought it was a good way to use my spare time,” she said.
“As I am young, I hope my volunteering may transform into a career.
“It is quite fun to do and I think everyone should give it a go.”
Ms Rostig said volunteering had opened up many doorways for herself, extending her hours and creating lasting friendships with clients.
“The two ladies I work with were happy to spend more time with me,” she said.
“I have been challenged which has made me stronger and a better person.”
Ms Osmond said she enjoys listening to people’s stories as “everyone’s story is different”.
“Sometimes you get too involved and then it is hard when something happens to them,” she said.
“I have learnt a lot of different things along my journey.
“Over the years a lot has changed, but I have enjoyed each and every step of the way.”
Country Health Connect volunteer coordinator Amy Watt said National Volunteer Week allows volunteers to form relationships with other volunteers they may have never met before.
“In the South East, there are 115 volunteers under me which are spread out across the region,” she said.
“The volunteers only get to see each other when large events are held.
“We do not stand alone, we are connected like a family.”
The Mount Gambier and District Hospital will host a lunch for its volunteers today from 12pm, with a recognition ceremony at 2pm.
Ms Watt said the week was about recognising volunteers’ efforts and showing appreciation for their hard work.
“Each year we try and take another step to make the week bigger and better,” she said.
“The more the event gets out there, the more volunteers are proclaimed for their efforts.
“We value our volunteers and we would not be where we are today without them.”
