ASK volunteers like Joan LeRoy what keeps them helping out week after week and the answer is simple.
“People! The pleasure you get when people come up to meet you and you’re able to help is wonderful,” she says.
Joan has been volunteering at Footscray’s Western Hospital for almost 16 years. Every Wednesday, she’s at the information desk, helping people out as they come in and making sure their visit runs smoothly.
Travelling in each week from Caroline Springs is also a way for her to stay active and involved. Joan’s role might involve answering phones, booking taxis or simply having a chat.
“It’s really pleasurable when you see that smile on their faces,” she says.
Community engagement and volunteers team leader Jo Spence said Joan was greatly respected at the hospital. “She remains professional yet personable at all times, and in her current role as a visitor guide she continues to prove an outstanding ambassador for the volunteer team and our organisation,” Ms Spence says.
Joan is just one of Victoria’s army of dedicated volunteers being acknowledged during the current National Volunteer Week.
Deputy Premier Peter Ryan said more than 1.5million Victorians volunteer in areas such as emergency services, health, education and sport.
For volunteering opportunities in Melbourne’s west, visit volunteerwest.wordpress.com.
