Community
28 March, 2025
Service recognition prompts volunteer call
A VOLUNTEER at South West Healthcare (SWH)’s David Newman Adult Day Centre is encouraging others to volunteer their time following SWH acknowledging her service.
Judy Myers has volunteered with SWH for 10 years and was presented with a certificate of appreciation last week to acknowledge her dedication.
Ms Myers works at the centre on a weekly basis, working from home at other times to assist with the social support program.
She said she didn’t need acknowledgement for what she does at the David Newman Centre, only seeking enjoyment she gets from volunteering.
“It’s no chore for me to go to the David Newman Centre every Tuesday – I love going,” she said.
“The staff are fabulous, and always have been since I started.
“The staff and the clients are the main reason I go.
“The staff are extremely dedicated and always put the clients first, create a safe environment, and everything they do is for a purpose.
“I love their values, and that’s why I continue to be a volunteer there.”
Ms Myers said she also enjoyed interacting with the clients, listening to their stories and spending time with them.
“I think very client has a story to tell, and I love listening to their stories – I love hearing about their families, their gardens and their pets and everything they have,” she said.
“I think more people should listen to the older people. We all have a lot to learn.
“They’re a very resilient group of people, and often a lot of them have gone through difficult times – they’ve gone through depressions, World War Two, and a lot of them don’t have a high education as they finished school when they were perhaps 14.
“I think they’re all willing to learn and it’s just lovely to be with them and help them.
“If I can make them happy by making a cup of tea or helping them with an activity, then I’m happy and it’s a win-win situation.”
Ms Myers said she encouraged residents to put their hands up to volunteer, even if they spend one day a month volunteering to see if the place they choose is their passion before committing further.
“I encourage a lot more people to volunteer at places like this,” she said.
“They certainly need more volunteers, and it’s a wonderful place to be.”
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