The right time to give back

Karingal DoCare knows that a small commitment from a volunteer can make a huge difference.
Six months after the amalgamation of community services organisations Karingal and DoCare Geelong, Karingal DoCare is seeking volunteers to assist older people across the Geelong region.
According to Karingal DoCare social support manager Siarhra Atkins, the benefits of volunteering are invaluable.
“You choose how much time you are willing to volunteer and we’ve found that just a few hours a week can make a difference,” she said.
“If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer who provides social support and friendship to an older person, we can find a role for you.”
Karingal DoCare provides proactive social support for older people including home visiting, home library, client and carer groups, activity groups and social outings.
Volunteers assist with these services and help to prevent social isolation.
“Ultimately, it results in greater community connections for both the client and the volunteer,” Siarhra said.
Karingal DoCare welcomes all volunteers but is particularly in need of more volunteers on the Bellarine Peninsula and in the northern suburbs of Geelong.
Prospective volunteers should contact Karingal DoCare on 5298 1053.
More information can be found at www.karingal.org.au/volunteer/karingal-docare.
The service – for people aged over 65 – is supported by financial assistance from the Commonwealth and Victorian governments through the HACC (Home And Community Care) program.
Karingal also has volunteers who support people with a disability to be more actively involved in community life.