Ahead of International Volunteer Day, The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital is thanking it’s over 80 volunteers.
The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital General Manager Wallis Westbrook said International Volunteer Day was an important opportunity to recognise the commitment volunteers make every day of the year to not-for-profit organisations like The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital.
“Volunteers are at the heart of our organisation. As a not-for-profit, our ability to provide ongoing services to those in need is assisted greatly by the dedication and commitment of our hard-working volunteers.”
Lorraine Boettcher is one such volunteer. At the age of 13, Lorraine made a promise to herself to be helpful and live her life in service of others.
It’s a promise she’s kept for 77 years, dedicating her life to serving others through volunteerism.
Since 2010, Lorraine has volunteered at The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital, where she assists with tasks that keep the hospital running smoothly and efficiently – including distributing patient satisfaction surveys to delivering lunches to doctors and day patients, and offering a listening ear to those in need.
“Through experiences I have had in my life, including losing my husband 30 years ago, I felt that through volunteering I could offer words of understanding and comfort to others,” she said.
Despite her hard work, Lorraine insists she gets more out of volunteering than she gives.
“I think the only disadvantage to volunteering is that I am not 20 years younger and I can’t volunteer longer,” she said.
The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital General Manager Wallis Westbrook said the hospital’s volunteers epitomised its culture of service.
“Volunteering is all about compassion, which is one of our key values. We are lucky to have over 80 volunteers at The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital, providing invaluable contributions to the hospital’s operation and culture.
“We will be hosting an appreciation breakfast on 7 December for our volunteers, and I encourage everyone to take a moment to thank the volunteers who support their local communities. There are so many volunteer opportunities – at The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital as well as UnitingCare Queensland’s broader range of services, so there is an opportunity to suit everyone.”
For more information about volunteer opportunities, visit www.sunshinecoasthospital.com.au/community/volunteers or call 07 5430 3303.