They’re the trio that has given a collective 75 years of their lives volunteering at AnglicareSA’s Magdalene Centre.
But now, long-serving volunteers Adrienne, Jane, and Helen have decided it’s time to retire.
“I enjoy being able to help people.”
Jane, Volunteer, AnglicareSA
Employees and volunteers – both past and present – gathered to farewell the women, sharing stories of their generosity not just with those needing assistance at the Magdalene Centre, but also with training and mentoring employees and other volunteers over the years.
Even after decades working at the Magdalene Centre, Adrienne, Jane, and Helen have never lost sight of their altruistic motivations for volunteering.
“Every week, I get a highlight from volunteering and being able to make a difference in someone’s life,” said Helen, who has been volunteering at the centre for nearly 20 years.
Jane, who volunteered as a receptionist for 25 years said: “I enjoy being able to help people.”
Adrienne, a parishioner at St Michael’s Mitcham Anglican Church, started volunteering at the Magdalene Centre three months after it opened 30 years ago.
She said that while she had seen changes in location and services over the years, one thing had remained the same – the impact that being there for someone could have on their wellbeing.
“Listening can seem like a tiny thing, but it truly makes a difference in someone’s life.”
Adrienne, Volunteer, AnglicareSA
Emergency Assistance Coordinator Jill Rivers said that the women had a heart for the community, and this, coupled with their years of service, would be why they will be so missed.
“The ladies are always responsive to those in need,” Jill said.
“They have a wide reach in the community and love interacting with the people who come in for assistance. With the ladies moving on, a large part of the history of the Magdalene Centre will be lost.”
Emergency Assistance Team Leader Sonyia Cannon echoed the impact of the retiring trio.
“They’ve got hearts as big as Australia – just huge hearts.”
Sonyia Cannon, Emergency Assistance Team Leader, AnglicareSA
“They are here for the community and make the world better. They’re a smile a minute.”
What are the trio’s plans now that they have hung up their volunteering boots?
“Sleeping in on Tuesday mornings,” Helen said.
“We all have busy lives and have plenty to do,” Jane said.
At AnglicareSA, we’re proud to have around 300 volunteers who give their time to support people experiencing vulnerability.
We have lots of great volunteering opportunities across our services. If you’re keen to help others, then click here.