Volunteers celebrated at Ann Harding Cheshire Home
Volunteers at the Ann Harding Cheshire Home were honoured with a braai lunch, celebrating their invaluable contributions to the care facility’s success and resident happiness.
The Ann Harding Cheshire Home, a residential care facility for adults with physical disabilities, hosted a special braai lunch to honour the contributions of its dedicated volunteers. The event was made possible through the generosity of the Australian Volunteers Programme, which sponsored the food and joined in the celebration.
The home also welcomed two new volunteers from the programme, Nicole Ash, who will assist with facilities management over the next 10 months, and Prathiba Ravi, who will remotely help with fundraising efforts by developing a database of potential donors in Australia and New Zealand.
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“Our volunteers are an integral part of our home, and form very close bonds with the residents,” said Jackie Kyle, the fundraising manager. “They keep them occupied with various activities and bring so much joy to their lives. Without them, our home would not be the happy place that it is.”
The Ann Harding Cheshire Home relies on a wide range of volunteers who dedicate their time to enhancing the lives of the residents. From the charity shop volunteers, who dedicate one or two days a week to running the home’s shop, a vital source of income, to the arts and crafts enthusiasts who engage residents in weekly arts and crafts sessions, enabling them to create beautiful handmade items. On Fridays, a volunteer teaches fine art to some of the residents, providing a creative outlet for self-expression. Two pastors also lead weekly Bible study sessions, offering spiritual guidance and support.
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Also volunteering is Paws for People, a heartwarming initiative that brings therapy dogs to interact with the residents, spreading joy and comfort. Some volunteers dedicate their time to building personal connections with residents, helping them address challenges and fostering friendships, while the board of directors and home management committee, all volunteers, ensure smooth operations at the home. Additionally, during school holidays, students performing community service often lend a helping hand.
The Australian Volunteers Programme has been a key partner of the home for many years, contributing not only skilled volunteers but also significant funding for various projects that directly benefit the residents. Past volunteers have left a lasting legacy, equipping the home with skills and knowledge to continue their impactful work.
The Ann Harding Cheshire Home’s braai lunch was not only a celebration but also a heartfelt thank-you to the many individuals who play a role in making the home a welcoming and supportive space.
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