IRT celebrates aged care volunteers this National Volunteer Week

This week IRT is celebrating the powerful impact volunteers make every day to the lives of those living in the organisation’s three aged care centres and four retirement villages in the St George and Sutherland Shire region.

A celebratory morning tea was held in honour of the many IRT volunteers in South East Sydney who generously donate their time and skills to help support older Australians and their families.

Julia Coote is a resident of IRT Thomas Holt Kirrawee and regularly donates her time to enrich the lives of her neighbours. A resident for 15 years, Julia has spent 12 of those volunteering at the co-located aged care centre and in the retirement village.

Julia calls bingo in the aged care centre and says the residents are like family to her. “They let me know about their stories,” she says.

“I like to see that they are having a good time as well. I love it [volunteering]. I love the interaction and to get to know people.”

Julia believes volunteering does make a difference to people’s lives. “They have another person to listen to them,” she explains.

When she can, Julia also supports retirement village residents. “If someone needs a hand I will help out. I’m always happy to do it when I’m able.”

She also helps deliver mail across parts of the village and estimates she spends four to five hours a week volunteering her time doing various activities.

Julia is no stranger to volunteering and community service. For 35 years she scored games for the Sutherland Cricket Club and earned an Australian Sports Medal in 2000 for her service. It was only a hiccup in her health that led to her retirement from scoring.

Julia also received a Cook Community Award in 2014 in recognition of her valued contribution to the Thomas Holt Village.

Many IRT volunteers, just like Julia make a difference in the lives of older people by engaging with them in a range of ways; from assistance with serving food and transport, to social activities, arts and crafts and engagement activities. Residents enjoy having someone to talk to, and you’ll enjoy talking to them too.

If you’ve thought about volunteering in aged care than IRT wants to hear from you. By signing up for a volunteer trial, new volunteers work under the supervision of the Lifestyle team and have the opportunity to extend their experience beyond the trial. People interested in volunteering can contact the IRT Volunteering Team on 134 478 or volunteering@irt.org.au

Media enquiries: Hannah Ellson 0429 361 627 | engage@irt.org.au

General enquiries: 134 478

About IRT Group:
IRT Group is one of Australia’s largest community-owned, not-for-profit providers of retirement living, residential aged care and home care. With more than 50 years’ experience and locations throughout NSW, the ACT and South East Queensland, we employ more than 2000 people and play a significant role in promoting seniors as dynamic, influential and valuable members of society.