Catholic Healthcare volunteers have been recognised in the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards for the difference they make in the lives of older people across New South Wales.
This year, 66 Catholic Healthcare volunteers were nominated by their teams for the care, companionship and support they provide to residents and clients through visits and phone calls. Seven have been named finalists, alongside Catholic Healthcare employees Malcolm Grice and Niv Srivastava, who are finalists for Adult Volunteer of the Year and Volunteer Leader of the Year respectively. Winners will be announced later this year.
Today, Catholic Healthcare has nearly 500 active Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) volunteers. While being acknowledged is always special, many say the greatest reward is the friendships they build along the way.
First to last: Volunteers Helen, Helen Gimenez, Marlene and Anya
Volunteer Anya Kovryga said the relationship she has built with resident Vera is what makes volunteering so meaningful.
‘Over time, my visits have become something I genuinely look forward to. We talk, we laugh, we share stories, and I've had the privilege of getting to know her and learning about her life,’ Anya said.
‘What I find really special is that it never feels one-sided. I may be there as a volunteer, but Vera gives so much back to me through our conversations and simply the time we spend together. I always leave our visits feeling that I've gained something too.’
Fellow volunteer Helen Gimenez, who has volunteered with Catholic Healthcare for 21 years, shared a similar experience.
‘The most fulfilling part of being a volunteer is seeing how much residents appreciate the time we spend together. It's a special kind of satisfaction, and giving back to the community makes me feel whole,’ she said.
Catholic Healthcare Volunteer Coordinator Nova Raboy, who nominated many of this year's volunteers, said it was incredibly rewarding to see their dedication recognised.
‘Their contribution not only enhances individual lives but also helps create stronger, more connected communities,’ Nova said.
To all Catholic Healthcare volunteers, and to the Volunteering teams who support them, thank you. Congratulations to all nominees and finalists on this well-deserved recognition.
If you would like to support older people through connection and companionship, we would love to hear from you. To learn more about volunteering with Catholic Healthcare, email volunteers@chcs.com.au