“I was inspired to begin volunteering by memories of how good it felt to give to others, to be ‘of service’.
It seems quite selfish really but having spent 10 years previously volunteering for Lifeline (Christchurch) I noticed I missed the feelings I got from giving to others, with no expectation of getting anything in return. I had recently started volunteering again with the Kowhai Companion programme at Burwood Hospital and as I neared retirement I felt I could ‘do more’, so I jumped at the chance to be a part of the amazing team at Age Concern Canterbury.
I feel like I get so much more out of volunteering than I put in, the people I walk alongside are such great teachers, they help me to feel ‘grounded’ and they give me a meaning and purpose to my life.
I was amazed how many hours volunteers are donated just in Canterbury alone, (and the equivalent dollar figure is unbelievable) oh and the ‘buzz volunteering gives you. I wish more people knew this about volunteering.
I volunteer because I care about others. Thank you to everyone who makes it all possible.”
