I want to volunteer

In the quiet moments before GFS Perth board meetings begin, Jill can be found preparing food, seeing everyone has all they need, and ensuring every detail is sorted. As the chairperson of our not-for-profit board, Jill embodies the spirit of volunteerism that National Volunteer Week (May 19-25) celebrates.

Conversations about starting GFS Perth began 141 years ago and in 1888 the organisation became an official incorporated organisation in Western Australia. We believe this makes us the oldest not for profit in the state, beginning before women could vote. We are proud to say that
GFS has been enabling friendships for almost a century and a half, many that have lasted for over 50 or 60 years, and we are still doing so today.

Jill’s connection with GFS Perth (www.gfsperth.com.au) spans many years as a member, even then managing a full-time role in the disability sector alongside developing a work to support children in Kenya and leading groups at her local church. Her journey with our organisation took a courageous turn when she stepped up to become chair during an especially challenging period when leadership was most needed.

This decision exemplifies her unwavering commitment to our cause and community. “I enjoy building community, connecting people, seeing what develops,” Jill said.

“No-one should be lonely for the want of a smile or a kind word.

“Friendship is a wonderful gift, an opportunity for true reciprocity, no matter who you are, where you are from or your capacity.

“Volunteering offers an opportunity for all.

“You always receive far more than you give.”

Her impact is undeniable. Jill’s fruitful collaboration with our CEO has enabled our organisation to move on leaps and bounds. The building project for our new base in the Swan Valley – Friendship Central - is now in its final planning stages, and our whole team is growing.

It is safe to say that Jill embodies the strength of character and openhearted friendship that the women of GFS have shown throughout the last 140 plus years.

As a grandmother, Jill brings that same nurturing spirit to everything she does. Her genuine care extends to everyone she encounters, whether they are long-time members or newcomers to GFS Perth. Despite juggling countless balls, family commitments, her role as a grandmother, and
her chairperson responsibilities, she somehow manages to fulfill all her commitments with grace and her characteristic smile.

What makes Jill exceptional is not just her dedication to GFS Perth, but how she nurtures the strengths of everyone across the organisation. She has an uncanny ability to identify people’s talents and passions, creating opportunities for meaningful contribution that honour each person’s unique gifts.

“My journey with volunteering started with my parents, I think their kindness and inclusiveness to those marginalised by community was a great example,” Jill said.

“My faith is a big driver, living what I believe.

“Words without action are meaningless.”

As part of National Volunteer Week, we honour not just Jill’s countless hours of service to GFS Perth, but the heart she brings to everything she does. Her leadership reminds us that volunteering is not just about giving time, it is about bringing your whole self to a cause you believe in.

In a world that often measures success in material terms, Jill measures it in lives touched and communities strengthened. For this, and for her tireless dedication to our mission at GFS Perth, we are profoundly grateful.

Volunteering at Citizens Advice Bureau WA (CAB) for almost a decade, I talked with Edward Anthony. Affectionately known around the office as ‘Ted,’ he discussed the importance and value of volunteering with the CAB and his career working for our communities.

As a teenager, Ted was unable to afford schooling. No one in his family had previously completed high school and he was determined to be the first. Taking a teacher’s scholarship he was able to follow his dream and attend high school. This also led to Ted being enrolled and completing a teaching degree.

After working as a teacher and Vice Principal for many years, Ted moved to the Department of Education working on policy and legislation which governed the education industry. Ted found his calling serving the public by coincidence. While he enjoyed working on a larger scale, he missed the satisfaction of improving the lives of individuals on a personal level that he had while teaching.

After working as a teacher and Vice Principal for many years, Ted moved to the Department of Education working on policy and legislation which governed the education industry.

Ted found his calling serving the public by happenstance and while he enjoyed working on a larger scale, he missed the satisfaction of improving the lives of individuals on a personal level that he had while teaching.

On retirement, Ted became a volunteer.

When asked on why he enjoys working with the CAB he said, “It’s rewarding; people are grateful.” Finding that satisfaction working directly with people and improving their lives once more, Ted works tirelessly answering phone calls from the public.

He said these calls can be anything from neighborhood disputes on trimming overhanging branches to distressing calls on breakdowns in family relationships. No matter who the call is from or what it is about, Ted states “you need a sense of awareness and empathy” to ensure quality service delivery.

For over 60 years, the CAB has been advising West Australians and connecting communities with information and services. CAB now has ten locations from Busselton to Joondalup, Midland to Fremantle, all staffed by our trained volunteers who give their time freely week in week out, like Ted does.

As part of National Volunteer Week, the CAB thanked Ted and all the hard-working volunteers for giving so much of their time and energy to the communities they serve.