Rarely has National Volunteer Week been as important as it is in 2020.
The efforts of those working for no profit to achieve a goal within the community are of vital importance in the current coronavirus pandemic, so we at the Mandurah Mail thought it prudent to highlight the good work of our local vollies.
With his volunteer activities curtailed by COVID-19, Ingenia Gardens Seascapes resident Bob Geyer is ready to return to his volunteering work at Amana Living Mandurah as soon as restrictions ease.
Mr Geyer's time at the Amana Living Nursing Home began with visits to his wife who was placed in their care after being diagnosed with dementia, and since her passing two years ago, he has continued to volunteer his time at the nursing home.
"I really enjoyed volunteering my time and would spend about three mornings a week at Amana Living," Mr Geyer said.
"I wasn't doing much physical work, but I spent my time talking to the residents, helping out the staff and organising fun and games for everyone to take part in.
"Much of my day was spent talking to residents which is something that many of the staff don't always have time to do in between their duties.
You learn a lot about people and how to communicate with them and I think you learn a lot about tolerance and helping people with their problems - we all have them.
- Aged care volunteer Bob Geyer
Mr Geyer is one of many volunteers who has been spending time at Amana Living helping to combat loneliness and provide social companionship to the residents.
"You learn a lot about people and how to communicate with them and I think you learn a lot about tolerance and helping people with their problems - we all have them," he said.
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Ingenia Gardens Seascapes community manager Sonia Magee said Mr Geyer was such a wonderful presence in their community.
"Bob is such a charmer and brings life and fun to our community - the staff and residents at Amana Living are very lucky to have him," she said.
"Volunteering is a great way for our senior residents to stay independent and build a sense of purpose and it's wonderful to know that our very own Bob Geyer is making such a difference."
