108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
What does it take to change lives? Sometimes, all it takes is an opportunity.
Four years ago, Debbie Bailey moved with her husband to Bundaberg from the Gold Coast, leaving behind her family and the life she knew.
In a new town without friends to turn to, she reflected on the times she had visited her father in nursing homes and the loneliness she had seen among so many of the elderly there.
So, when she spotted an IMPACT Community Services’ advertisement for volunteers to connect with elderly people in Bundaberg’s aged care homes, she saw an opportunity to achieve two goals – connect with lonely people and build new friendships for herself.
"I just love that I can give back to people,” Debbie said recently as she attended a morning tea to recognise IMPACT’s team of Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) volunteers.
“I don’t feel my age…I still feel young, and that’s how these people feel too. Getting involved and spending time with them helps you appreciate how much they still have to offer, as people, just like you and me. That’s what I get out of volunteering.”
Not only did ACVVS provide an opportunity for Debbie but also her granddaughter, Lilly, who had followed her grandparents to Bundaberg after finishing school.
Together, Debbie and Lilly decided to volunteer at Grace Haven. For Lilly it was the start of a new journey. Having enjoyed her volunteering role, she enrolled in an Aged Care course with IMPACT.
She was then able to build on the relationships she had at the facility on her work placement, which was part of the course, eventually securing a job immediately on the course completion.
"IMPACT changed Lilly’s life. It's hard for young people to know what they want to do, so if it wasn’t for this, then she might have never known," Debbie said.
Debbie also praised the dedication and commitment of IMPACT staff, who go beyond to provide support.
If you want to become a volunteer, visit the ACVVS page on our website or call 1800 179 233.
