There are so many volunteers in our community who give generously of their time and hearts to worthy causes. They say that in helping others, they too are uplifted and it’s a win-win for everyone. Their sense of purpose and warmth are truly inspiring.
Ashlea Sutton
headspace – YAChT (Youth Advisory Crew headspace Townsville)
How long have you been volunteering? I’ve been volunteering at headspace with YAChT for the past year-and-a-half. YAChT gives young people between the age of 15 and 25 an opportunity to be heard and active within youth mental health.
Why do you volunteer? I’ve always believed that mental health is important and through studying Psychology I realised how much value there is in talking openly about mental health. I heard a lot about headspace and their involvement within the community so I thought it would be a great opportunity to get involved.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering? Mental health is such an important part of everyone’s life and it’s really important for mental illness to be normalised because people do encounter these struggles but with the right information and professional help they’re manageable. I also really enjoy the YAChT group. They’re so eager to engage with the community.
CONNECT NOW:
www.headspace.org.au
Heather Clarkson
Mission to Seafarers, Berth 9, Port of Townsville
How long have you been volunteering? I started volunteering, together with my husband Steve, in August 2015.
Why do you volunteer? As part of my ministry associated with St James Cathedral Townsville, I’m able to give time and a helping hand within one of Townsville’s many not-for-profit organisations who are always looking for much-needed volunteers.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering? Volunteering at the Mission to Seafarers enables me to meet and welcome many overseas crews to our city of Townsville. It’s wonderful to be part of an organisation that’s been providing hospitality and social welfare to seafarers for over 90 years. We meet many interesting characters from all over the world and learn about the diversity of their many cultures. This year the Mission to Seafarers celebrated its 90th anniversary of operations in Townsville (established 1927 at Old Jetty Road South Townsville).
CONNECT NOW:
www.mts.org.au
Anglicare Rest and Recovery, Safe Night Precinct Support Service
How long have you been volunteering? Every Saturday night for 14 months.
Why do you volunteer? The more I give of my time the happier I feel. Volunteering gives me a great sense of natural accomplishment that’s not easily found in everyday life and work. Anglicare Rest and Recovery offers a regular service every Friday and Saturday night between 10.30pm and 3.30am from pop-up tents on Flinders Street East nightclub strip. They also run on other nights for public holidays and special events. They’re staffed by extremely compassionate workers and volunteer Chaplains who assist patrons who’ve ventured out for the night to be safe.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering? Volunteering takes me outside of my comfort zone while learning new skills and I’ve met the most amazing people through volunteering. I really enjoy the late nights and early mornings, even when we work till 5am. You work as a genuine team (we work collaboratively with the Queensland Police Service, Queensland Ambulance Service and venue security) and have many laughs along the way.