Volunteering With A Compassionate Heart

Myrtle Cottage is a respite cottage that offers a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals requiring temporary care, providing a crucial break for their primary caregivers. The success of our mission hinges on the dedication and compassion of our volunteers, who play an invaluable role in enhancing the lives of those we host

**What Does Volunteering at Myrtle Cottage Involve?**

Volunteers at Myrtle Cottage engage in a variety of activities that contribute to the comfort, well-being, and enjoyment of our clients. These roles are flexible and can be tailored to your interests and availability, ensuring a rewarding experience for both you and the individuals you support. Key areas where volunteers make a difference include:

- ** Companionship and Social Engagement**: Spending quality time with clients, engaging in conversation, reading aloud, playing games, or simply offering a listening ear. This personal connection is vital for combating loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging.
- ** Recreational Activities**: Assisting with and leading planned activities such as arts and crafts, music appreciation, light exercise, gardening, or group outings. These activities promote mental stimulation and physical well-being.
- ** Practical Support**: Helping with light tasks around the cottage to maintain a comfortable and homely atmosphere, such as tidying common areas, assisting with mealtime preparation (e.g., setting tables), or helping residents with mobility around the facility.
- ** Administrative Assistance**: For those with organisational skills, there may be opportunities to assist with light administrative duties, such as organising activity materials or preparing welcome packets for new residents.

**Who Can Volunteer?**

We welcome individuals from all walks of life who possess a genuine desire to help others. While no prior experience is strictly necessary, qualities such as empathy, patience, reliability, and a positive attitude are highly valued. All volunteers undergo a thorough orientation process and receive the necessary training to ensure they feel confident and prepared for their roles.

**Benefits of Volunteering**:
Volunteering at Myrtle Cottage offers numerous benefits beyond the satisfaction of helping others:

- ** Make a Tangible Difference**: Witness firsthand the positive impact of your time and effort on the lives of clients and their families.
- ** Gain Valuable Experience**: Develop new skills, enhance existing ones, and gain experience in a supportive care environment.
- ** Connect with Your Community**: Meet like-minded individuals, build new friendships, and become an integral part of our compassionate team.

**Personal Growth**: Experience increased self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and a deeper understanding of the challenges and joys of aging and caregiving.

**About Southern Cross Care**

Southern Cross Care has provided quality aged care and retirement living services to our community for more than 55 years. We offer residential aged care, support at home, health and wellness, respite and retirement living services across South Australia, the Northern Territory and Victoria.

We believe that every person has the right to experience a good quality of life and that no matter where you come from, life can always be better. That's why our vision is to support members of our community to be Better for life.

We're always looking for people who will be the difference in the lives of our residents and clients, and are committed to supporting our staff and volunteers to share in our vision.