☕ Share a Coffee, a Chat & a Smile | Become a Companion Volunteer | Ashburton VIC

Join Our Coffee & Chat Program: Make a Difference in the Lives of Elderly Residents Brighten someone's day and make a meaningful contribution to their quality of life!  Our Coffee & Chat Program is a 1:1 personal visit which helps increase connectedness and happiness among aged care residents. We are looking for special people who put compassion, connection and caring for other people at the heart of everything they do.

We are seeking a compassionate and patient volunteer to spend time providing companionship to a resident located in an Ashburton aged care. Below you'll meet someone who would love to welcome a new friendly face into their week and enjoy the companionship that regular visits can bring.

'Beth' is a warm and friendly lady who enjoys knitting, baking, coffee, and having a good chat. She has a mild intellectual disability, and while she may sometimes need a little extra time or support in conversations, she has a lovely sense of humour and enjoys getting to know people. Beth also has some mobility challenges, so she prefers relaxed, unhurried visits where she can feel comfortable and at ease.

Beth would love to welcome a friendly volunteer who enjoys conversation and is happy to spend quality time together, whether that's over a cup of coffee, chatting about favourite recipes or craft projects, or simply enjoying each other's company. Your companionship could bring warmth, confidence, and connection to her week while creating a meaningful friendship for you both.

What You’ll Do:

• Read books, articles or stories aloud
• Engage in meaningful conversation
• Enjoy a chat over a cup of coffee
• Take a stroll in the garden
• Read books, play cards, or work on puzzles
• Listen to their favourite music

Why Volunteer? Many elderly Australians in aged care homes face loneliness and social isolation. By volunteering just one hour a fortnight, you can make a significant difference in their lives. You'll be matched one-on-one with a resident who could greatly benefit from your friendship. Studies show that loneliness can be as detrimental to health as smoking, and sadly, over 40% of people in aged care lack regular visitors. Your presence can help bridge this gap.

Program Details:

• Dedication: Our special volunteers are people who would like to visit their new friend at least 20 times or more over a twelve-month period (about one visit every two to three weeks or more).
• Requirements: Must be over 18 years old, pass a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) (provided and paid for by us) and ideally be available to visit consistently and ongoing.

Ideal Volunteers:

• Exhibit care and compassion for the elderly
• Have excellent communication skills
• Are committed and punctual

What You’ll Gain:

• The chance to form long-lasting, meaningful friendships
• Be part of a friendly team with a strong community spirit
• Experience the joy of enriching the lives of others

Ready to Make a Difference? If you’re looking for a role where you can truly connect with others and enrich your community, apply to join our Coffee & Chat Program today. Help us combat loneliness and bring a sense of belonging to those who need it most.

Equal Opportunity At St Vincent’s we value inclusivity and diversity and acknowledge the importance of creating an environment that is welcoming, safe, fair and impartial and invite people from all backgrounds to join our caring family.