Bringing generations together through volunteering
17th June 2026 | 4 min readHow shared time and kindness enrich life for residents and volunteers alike
Volunteering at our Care Communities enables people to make a real difference in the lives of older people – while also creating significant benefits for volunteers themselves.
Residents at Carseldine Greens Care Community in Brisbane have warmly embraced volunteers Thakshi and her daughter Deanna, whose regular visits bring connection, joy and a strong sense of belonging for everyone involved.
“I wait for their visit every Friday. I look forward to it all week. It’s wonderful to have them here — we have truly become friends,” says resident, Annette.
For Thakshi, who came to Australia from Sri Lanka with her husband and young daughter, Deanna, volunteering with us has been a way to find connection and purpose in a new community.
Thakshi and Deanna’s story
Through her local Emerge Church, Thakshi began volunteering at Carseldine Greens soon after arriving in Australia. Each Friday morning, she and three year old Deanna spend time with residents, sharing gentle conversation, listening to life stories, offering hand massages, helping with art activities, and simply being present. Deanna brings her own special energy — laughter, playfulness and spontaneous interaction that lifts spirits and brings smiles.
For residents who prefer not to join group activities, these one‑on‑one moments are often just as meaningful. A simple chat, shared laughter or quiet companionship can make a profound difference.
Thakshi believes these experiences are shaping Deanna’s empathy, confidence, and understanding of others.
“Deanna misses her grandparents, who live in Sri Lanka. Coming here gives her a lovely opportunity to connect with older people and share the affection she would otherwise give to her own grandparents,” says Thakshi.
“It’s helping teach her how to greet people warmly, listen respectfully, show patience, offer kindness, and feel comfortable communicating with older generations.”
Wellbeing manager, Penelope, says there’s something special about the connections Thakshi and Deanna create with residents.
“They bring warmth, light, and genuine joy. It’s beautiful to see how much happiness can come from simple conversations, shared laughter, and small acts of kindness.”
We welcome volunteers at our Care Communities across Australia.
Care Community stories
Resident-led committees a meaningful forum for participationHaving a voice in daily life is central to living wellResident-led committees at our Care Communities enable older people to actively shape the place they call home, contributing t…
2nd November 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Second love blossoms at Springwood GreensJohn and Frances found companionship and love after meeting at Springwood Greens Care Community. Brought together by a lucky gold chocolate coin, a shared love of education and som…
19th October 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Helping Sandra achieve her goal of going homeWhen Sandra arrived at Gawler Hillside Care Community in South Australia, she was living with chronic pain, unable to walk and fully dependent on others for her care. Through perso…
18th September 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Julie’s inspiring journey to general managerFrom retail management to aged care leadership: Julie Moss's journey to General Manager For Julie Moss, general manager at Victoria’s Inverloch Coast Care Community, a career in ag…
27th August 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Big hearts, big impact at Rutherford ParkRutherford Park Care Community gives back to families in needResidents at Rutherford Park Care Community in the NSW Hunter region are helping local families experiencing hardship t…
16th July 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
How personalised dementia care helped Sharon reconnect through netballSharon, a resident living with dementia at Gawler Hillside Care Community in South Australia, struggled to adjust to residential aged care after moving into our Care Community. Thr…
9th July 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Bringing generations together through volunteeringHow shared time and kindness enrich life for residents and volunteers alikeVolunteering at our Care Communities enables people to make a real difference in the lives of older peopl…
17th June 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Support groups for families and carersWe established Dementia Connections Cafés to provide families and carers with opportunities to connect in person, share experiences, and support one another in a safe and welcoming…
4th June 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Human connections at Blacktown TerraceAt Blacktown Terrace Care Community in Western Sydney, a meaningful friendship between resident Paul, affectionately known as "Grand Paul", and team member Paul demonstrates the po…
28th May 2026 | 4 min read