As we celebrate National Volunteer Week from 19 to 25 May 2025, we express our gratitude to the volunteers who selflessly give their time to those in need, ensuring they are heard, seen, and acknowledged.
This year's theme, ‘Connecting Communities,’ celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together.
Here at Catholic Healthcare, we have seven hundred volunteers who provide support, comfort, and friendship to older people within Catholic Healthcare and other aged care providers.
In line with Catholic Healthcare’s mission to promote the dignity, life, and spirituality of older people through connected and inclusive communities, National Volunteer Week highlights how volunteering builds strong communities and enriches lives by fostering lasting relationships.
A beautiful example of this in practice is our volunteer Caroline Chaplin, who, despite being a busy owner and director of a company, has been making weekly phone calls to two Catholic Healthcare clients who live in regional areas for the past four years.
Although Caroline exemplifies how volunteers generously give of their time to add joy and meaning to the lives of others, Caroline will tell you that she gets as much out of volunteering as she gives.
Caroline said, ‘Working with Catholic Healthcare as a volunteer has brought me much joy, and I have received feedback that the two delightful ladies I call are also enjoying the friendship and regular contact.’
Deciding to volunteer after her mother died four years ago, Caroline realised how lonely her mother had been during the last few years and how grateful she was for Caroline’s phone calls. She thought it would be lovely to meet someone who could connect her to the elderly community.
Caroline said, ‘I was hoping for someone who would remind me of my mum and help to fill that void with a once-a-week phone call. To my delight, I have met two brilliant women whom I now consider my friends. It has been an honour to share their lives and histories.’
Caroline continued, ‘Even though technically I am volunteering to help them, I truly believe I have benefited from the relationships more than they may ever realise.’
What an inspirational story! And to all our Catholic Healthcare volunteers and the Volunteer team who support them, know that you inspire us.
If you, or someone you know, would like to make a difference by becoming a Catholic Healthcare volunteer, email volunteer@chcs.com.au or visit the Volunteers page on our website, here.