VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT KOWHAINUI
Kowhainui Home and Village manager Trish Boswell finds it hard to put into words just how much volunteers mean to residents, families and staff at the home. “As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re really grateful for the support of our volunteers - they help us ensure the residents here have as many opportunities as possible to enjoy companionship, choice and variety in their daily lives.
“It’s hard to express just how vital they are to the successful running of the home, but we really couldn’t do it without them,” says Trish.
This Volunteer Awareness Week (June 17-23), Enliven in Whanganui, which runs Kowhainui and nearby Abingdon Village on St John’s Hill, is thanking its volunteers for all their hard work. “We’re extremely lucky to have such a wonderful group of volunteers around us who share our values, are passionate about making a difference in elders’ lives, and are so generous with their time and energy. “To all our volunteers, thank you for enriching the lives of all the residents here and their families, and for being an inspiration to all of the staff,” says Trish. The Enliven homes’ volunteers help support a wide range of activities tailored to residents’ interests and needs, including arts and crafts, quizzes, games, themed parties and sightseeing tours.
For Kowhainui Home volunteer and villa resident Bernice Newland, these activities offer a unique opportunity connect with her neighbours.
“I enjoy just being able to have fun with the residents and tell them about what’s happening in my life and what’s new,” she says.
“Not all residents get a lot of family visitors or have friends who live nearby, so it’s nice to be able to keep them company and show them they are loved and valued.” Kowhainui Home is always on the lookout for volunteers to join the Enliven team.