Carinity celebrates valued volunteers, chaplains and supporters
The hard work and dedication of the unsung heroes of Carinity – its volunteers, chaplains and supporters – was recognised at a special Thank You High Tea held in Brisbane on November 7.
The event featured an inspiring address from keynote speaker, former vice-president of the International Association of Paroling Authorities and long-time community volunteer, Frank Lippett.
Maureen Bishop, who has volunteered at Carinity Karinya Place in Laidley for 15 years, was named the Volunteer of the Year. Maureen is motivated to give back because of the wonderful care her husband and mother received at Carinity.
“A lot of the residents were there when my mother was there, and I just can’t break that bond because they look forward to me coming there and talking to them,” Maureen says.
Dianne Dunkley, who volunteers four days a week at Carinity Fassifern Community Centre, received a Highly Commended Award. Described as “the glue that holds the staff and volunteers together”, Dianne’s duties include reception, administration tasks and the weekly barbecue.
Noelene Kidd, pictured, is a Carinity chaplain at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and also assists in training new chaplains. She was named the inaugural Chaplain of the Year. Don McPherson, Manager of Chaplaincy and Mission Services, says Noelene is a “quintessential chaplain”.
“As a person with a conscience about need in the world and the willingness to meet it with sterling service, Noelene is an inspiration to us all,” he says.
The Supporter of the Year is BridgeCare Sewing and Craft Team, which meets at Bridgeman Baptist Community Church in Brisbane.
Group members sew and knit beanies, blankets and soft toys for people in need, and make underwear for children at risk of neglect, abuse and domestic violence.
Carinity CEO Jon Campbell said BridgeCare Sewing and Craft Group’s care, attention and consideration “is only equalled by their creativity and commitment to helping others”.
Would you like to volunteer to assist Carinity and the people we support? Find out how at carinity.org.au/volunteer or call 07 3550 3737.
