Sylvia goes extra mile for seniors

When it comes to helping the elderly, Geelong’s Sylvia County goes the extra mile – whether by foot or bus.
Sylvia doesn’t drive but that hasn’t stopped her giving back to the Geelong community for 33 years.
“I just love doing it,” she said.
Sylvia has volunteered with aged-case services provider DoCare Geelong since 1983, visiting older people at risk of social isolation.
“It’s a nice feeling to give back and the people you visit are all so lovely and grateful,” she said.
“Someday, I might need help too – you never know never know what’s going to happen to you down the track.”
Karingal, a not-for-profit community services agency, has more than 200 volunteers who help older people. Together they contribute about 30,000 hours a year.
Karingal DoCare social support manager Siarhra Atkins said the benefits of volunteering were invaluable.
“You choose how much time you are willing to volunteer,” she said.
“We’ve found that just a few hours a week can make a difference.”
Karingal acknlowledged the contributions of Sylvia and its other volunteers during Naitonal Volunteer Week from 9 to 15 May.
Karingal DoCare seeks more volunteers to assist older people, particularly in northern Geelong and on the Bellarine Peninsula.
More information was available by phoning DoCare on 5298 1053.