National Volunteer Week kicks off on 19th May 2025 with the theme “Connecting Communities”. This theme acknowledges and celebrates the power volunteering has to bring people together.
We couldn’t think of a better example of how volunteering connects people and enriches lives than our Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).
We are so grateful to our caring volunteers who make this program possible.
ACVVS is a government-funded program providing friendship and companionship for older people who are isolated or at risk of social isolation or loneliness. Recipients, who can be living in an aged care facility or their own home, are visited by a trained and friendly Multicultural Care volunteer.
We spoke to a few of our wonderful volunteers about their volunteering journey with Multicultural Care.
Jessica
Jessica first started volunteering with Multicultural Care in 2019, joining our Weavers Program, then the CVS program and now the ACVVS program. She enjoys her time visiting elderly people who live alone at home, offering companionship and support through visits on the weekend.
“I feel very proud of being a Multicultural Care volunteer. I feel I am a very valued person in this organisation,” Jessica says.
Joao
Joao joined Multicultural Care as a volunteer to give back to the community and make a difference in the lives of others.
“I wanted to give something back to the place I now call home,” he says, emphasising the importance of shifting focus from personal needs to the needs of others.
As a ACVVS volunteer, Joao loves meeting other people, sharing laughs and hearing stories of past experiences. He finds every encounter enriching, offering new perspectives and learning opportunities. He says it is extremely rewarding to know he has made one person’s day just a little brighter with his visit.
For anyone considering volunteering with ACVVS, Joao says, “Residents will appreciate having some company and sharing their lives with you. It may take a little time for them to get to know you and feel comfortable, but it’s worth it.”
Dalton
Dalton started volunteering with Multicultural Care because he wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of elderly individuals. While gaining personal satisfaction from giving back to others, he’s also discovered valuable life skills.
“My experience has been incredibly rewarding,” he says.
“It’s given me a new perspective on life, seeing the resilience and wisdom of the elderly. I’ve formed meaningful connections with the residents, which has been fulfilling on a personal level. Of course, there were challenges, but each one taught me valuable lessons in patience, empathy and understanding.”
Dalton has been able to get involved in a range of activities, from helping with administration tasks and organising arts and crafts activities, to playing card games, organising social activities and even playing guitar and piano in sing-along-sessions with residents.
Volunteer with us
We’re always looking for new volunteers to join our ACVVS program! If you, or someone you know, would like more information about volunteering with Multicultural Care, contact us today by emailing admin@mc.org.au