Colleen Jones knows a thing or two about change. She has experienced much of it in her 30 years at St Francis Orange.
Colleen's career started in 1994 as a single mother with children to support. This year, she is sharing the 30-year milestone with her employer, Catholic Healthcare.
During this time, Colleen has provided for her family first in the kitchen, then as a cleaner and now as a qualified personal care assistant (PCA) after completing her Certificate III in Aged Care.
‘When I first started, it was a St Vincent de Paul hostel, which underwent a few name changes before Catholic Healthcare took over in 2007 and it became St Francis.’
While caring for others is all in a day’s work for Colleen, the biggest change over the years has been the increasing needs of those in her care.
‘People stay home for longer these days, so when they arrive, they are older and in need of more care.’
Living and working in a small community has allowed Colleen to care for those close to her and, at present, her first cousin. Many years of caring for those in the community have been fulfilling, providing genuine friendships with the families of those she has cared for.
‘I get so much satisfaction from caring for others, especially when they say, “Thank you,’ said Colleen.
‘You become close to the residents, and one lady in particular, she came from Nyngan. When she passed away, I went there for her funeral [a 3–4-hour trip].’ she said.
A day in Colleen’s life as a PCA usually involves an afternoon shift from 2.30 to 9.45 pm twice weekly. The shifts begin with a handover, followed by checking on the residents, including changing, showering, and assisting with dinner and bedtime.
The job requires great physical fitness, and Colleen's stamina is inspirational at 76 years of age.
It is the sense of purpose and the connections with others that keep Colleen at St Francis.
‘I have friendships, and because I am a single parent, well, my children—one is deceased, and the other is grown up—so I am virtually on my own,’ said Colleen.
For Rachel Constable, residential manager of St Francis, Colleen’s magnificent service is worthy of honouring.
‘There is no better example of living out our company’s values – Courage, Compassion, and Integrity, than Colleen.’
‘It was wonderful to celebrate her 30-year anniversary with Catholic Healthcare’s chief people officer, Catherine McMahon, in attendance.’
Would you like to find meaning in your career like Colleen? Consider joining our team by clicking here to see available roles.