A life with purpose: Sylvia’s journey with Vinnies

For Sylvia Lewis, volunteering at Vinnies isn’t just about lending a hand — it’s about 
belonging to something bigger.

After nearly a decade at the Vinnies Springfield store, Sylvia has become more than just 
a volunteer, she’s family.

“I don’t call it a community. I call it my Vinnies family,” she says. “They’re the people 
who show up for you.”

“I started over nine years ago when it was a much smaller shop,” said Sylvia. “Now it’s 
grown and so have the connections I’ve made.”

Today marks the start of National Volunteer Week (19 - 25 May), a national celebration of volunteers like Sylvia who make our communities a better place to live.

After being overlooked for work at age 62, Sylvia found a new chapter through 
volunteering.

"No one wanted to employ me because of my age. But then I came to 
Vinnies, and they welcomed me with open arms. They tell you a different story, one of 
value, purpose and inclusion.”

Sylvia is not alone in her experience.

In Australia, many individuals past the average 
retirement age struggle with social isolation and a lack of purpose. Research shows that 
around 16% of Australians aged 65 and over experience loneliness, while 11% are 
socially isolated.
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Sylvia’s sense of purpose and joy in giving back is contagious. “There’s nothing worse 
than sitting at home by yourself,” she says. “When you’re on your own, it’s so good to 
meet people. You find camaraderie, friendship and a reason to get up in the morning.”
Today, Sylvia volunteers several days a week and is a staple of every sale day, often 
welcoming shoppers with a smile as part of her “meet and greet” duties.

“There’s no wondering what to do with your day. You get up, pack your lunch, and you 
have your whole day planned. It’s so rewarding, it really is.”

Over the years, Sylvia has done just about everything — from pricing books and toys to 
colouring and ordering stock. As a keyholder and one of the most familiar faces in the 
store, she’s the first to offer help, guidance, or simply a kind word to both customers and 
fellow volunteers.

The deep bonds she’s formed at Vinnies extend beyond the shop floor. “I’m in the 
middle of moving house, and four of the volunteers are coming to help me. That’s the 
kind of bond we have.”

With adult children who cheer her on and lifelong friends made through Vinnies, Sylvia 
is a shining example of the difference volunteering makes — not just for the community, 
but for those who give their time.

“I had my 70th birthday two years ago and 28 people from Vinnies came,” she said.

“You think you’re alone, but you’re not. The friendships, the laughter, the purpose… it 
means everything.”

If you’d like to learn more about supporting your local community by volunteering for 
Vinnies Queensland, visit vinnies.org.au/qld/volunteer, email 
volunteering@svdpqld.org.au or go in store and chat with the team.