But Echuca Regional Health could not run without them.
Here is the story of an ERH volunteer.
VIDEO: Lena Vicary shares her story
BEHIND Echuca’s Glanville Village, there is a band of unsung heroes.
They’re called the Friends of Glanville.
You may not know them personally.
But if you have friends or relatives at the aged care facility, there’s no doubt you’ve felt their impact.
Because through their tireless fundraising efforts, the Friends of Glanville have raised more than $121,000 for equipment at the centre.
Something secretary Lena Vicary is quietly proud of.
“Sometimes it’s been larger items like tables and chairs, placemats, clocks, water fountains,” she said.
“Or at other times, the money’s just been used for something small like scones for a garden party.
“We also buy gifts for the residents just to make their life a bit happier. Also help volunteer gardeners with plants, soil, manure, whatever is needed.”Lena first joined the group in 1983.
She had finished up work at Lumeah and was looking for something to fill her time.
“I was approached by Bev Stapleton who was in charge of Lumeah at the time and she asked if I could help start up a group, an auxiliary, to raise money to buy things the hospital couldn't really buy, just to make it a little more comfortable and home-like for residents of Lumeah,” Lena said.
“I've held most of the positions on the committee. And then in about 2004 we amalgamated with the Glanville Village auxiliary when they closed down Lumeah and I've just continued on from there.”
In her more than 30 years on Friends of Glanville, Lena has seen plenty of people come and go.
And said they’re always looking for more members.
“We'd really like the family or friends of residents to become members of the committee, because they could see everyday things that are needed to make residents’ lives happier,” she said.
So what has kept Lena volunteering all these years?
“You never know, I might have to be here and I want it to be good when I get here,” she laughed.
“But seriously, I really don't know why I keep going. I just feel it's a very necessary thing and I enjoy keeping records and books, it's something I like doing.
“And I’ll keep doing it until somebody comes along and takes over.”
16°C