News

EGHS values their Volunteers

6th May, 2009

Volunteers contribute so much to the life of East Grampians Health Service and are a vital link to the community. It is difficult to put a dollar value on their commitment as they continually offer valuable assistance to our staff, residents and clients at Ararat and Willaura.

Volunteering enhances many aspects of the health service environment, as well as recreational and lifestyle programs provided by the Day Centre and Residential Care Services.

 Volunteer work is an important way for the community to become involved in the health service. As a volunteer, you are a valued team member, and your contribution is really appreciated by staff across the health service for making time available to help in daily activities. The skills and experience you may have to offer can contribute greatly to the quality of life of clients, residents and patients.

East Grampians Health Service is a very specialized agency with staff and volunteers required to undergo a police check and an interview process. Also volunteers have rights and responsibilities which have been developed under Australian laws and standards and cover specific work responsibilities in line with the values of the Health Service.

Volunteers also make up our 5 Auxiliaries including the EGHS, Lowe Street, Patricia Hinchey, Ark Toy Library and Willaura. The Auxiliaries not only offer support but are active in fundraising and donate valuable funds for the purchase of replacement or new equipment across the health service.

The Health Service is also very fortunate that they have other volunteer groups who work diligently including the Red Cross Book Service, the Ararat Breast Cancer Support Group and the Ararat Landcare Croup. Importantly also, is the role of the EGHS Board of Management which consists of voluntary community members who provide the governance of the Health Service and the L.I.N.C Group who provide feedback to the health service. As the occasion requires, community volunteers are also invited to participate on various Sub Committees or User Groups with staff members.

Each year East Grampians Health Service recognise volunteers long service and commitment by presenting Service Awards for 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years service.

All these volunteers who ‘make a difference'  assist in forging closer links with the community and help guide and assist the health service in meeting the needs of our community.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at East Grampians Health Service in Ararat or Willaura, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Christine Doak Tel: 5352 9331.