Kind-hearted volunteers make all the difference

By HBH - 21 March 2019

Kind-hearted volunteers make all the difference

Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”-  Elizabeth Andrew

There are many things that make HBH Senior Living such a special place – and among these are our amazing volunteers. From school students to animal visits to those who come and chat to our residents, our volunteers bring the outside world in and help our residents stay active and connected.

One of our many caring volunteers, Carole Wilson helps our Day Programme participants over lunch, chatting with them and assisting them when needed. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the attendees and so many of them have had such interesting lives,” she explains. “HBH’s Day Programme is such a special programme – offering fun activities as well as friendship and companionship for older people in our community.”

Carole cared for her mother while she still lived in her own home. When her mother moved into a rest home, she realised that some people never had anyone to visit them. “It saddened me. There is a real need for volunteers – for people to spend time with others who may not have anyone,” she says.

She says the best part of volunteering is the people. “I feel I’ve got to know them and enjoy catching up with them. I feel grateful that I’m healthy and can contribute in this way – when someone smiles or laughs and you can see you’ve made a difference to their day, it’s wonderful.”

Lisa Waldren
lisa@inspirationpoint.co.nz