2 minute read
Flourish Magazine - Winter 2024
TWO-WAY BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING
When long-time Taperoo Community Centre volunteer, Janet Ockenden (pictured), retired a decade ago, she quickly realised that sitting at home wasn’t an option for her or for her mental health.
A former domestic violence shelter counsellor, maths and science teacher, Janet decided to teach herself to paint.
Initially, she was part of a painting group at the Centre – a group of locals who liked to get together regularly to paint.
“Then people started to ask if they could learn to paint, so I started running painting classes, and we now have two classes here on a Monday which I run.
“It’s been wonderful to see people develop. We cover everything from what brushes to use and how to mix paints, to brush techniques and building your picture.”
In addition to painting classes, Janet runs a lifestyle and personal development program geared toward making healthy choices and improving quality of life.
I’ve learned a lot about myself from volunteering and I’ve learned to be more patient and understanding.
- JANET
Janet describes the Centre as a real community treasure, a lifeline for so many community members who benefit every week by learning new skills and, perhaps more importantly, a way for people to make connections with others.
“I absolutely love it,” she says. “I feel useful and engaged and if I didn’t come here, I’d just sit at home.”
The benefits of volunteering are much more than giving back to the community, she says. It’s also about personal development for volunteers, human connection and positive mental health.
