“I just think I’m lucky to be healthy and able to keep volunteering,” Margaret says. “My sister, Helen started Hills Community Support Group, now Rise, in 1983 to arrange social outings for people in the area. Her husband, Ron, was the Councillor in the area and there was nothing really happening for older people. She thought well, maybe, if we just have an afternoon tea at Brown Park Community Centre and somebody plays some music. She was astounded that so many people came. Ron, being in the Council, said this is something that should really go ahead. He got the Council to give the Hills Community Support Group an old house in Mundaring. It was really run down and all the volunteers and workers did it up to the standard it is today, a really lovely old house.”
“I enjoyed working at the City of Swan and I used to see my sister go to work, which she loved. So I said I think I’m going to volunteer and work at Rise. When I first came, I was a little bit uncertain, but it didn’t take long before I got to know the people who come. They are really lovely people. It’s just a pleasure to be there and see the smiles on their face when you help them. The volunteers who I work with have been there all the time that I’ve worked there and we’ve become friends as well. We go away, maybe overnight and have an outing on a Sunday, so it’s become like a friendship place.”
Margaret says she’s happiest doing things. She’s on the committee of her local tennis club and they’ve raised over $100,000 for the Cancer Foundation through a local tournament. “It’s very rewarding and fun to host this.” Earlier this year she competed in the Australian Seniors Tennis Championships in Busselton. She’s been over to New Zealand with the Australasian team as well. “I just enjoy life really. Just be happy and help people. I do like being with people.”
Volunteering at Rise
There are nearly 200 volunteers here at Rise, helping to make a difference. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact volunteering@risenetwork.com.au.