Age no barrier for spritely volunteers
They may be in their eighties, but that hasn’t stopped Canning Vale retirees Peter and Ramesh from lending a helping hand at their local Vinnies Shop.
As two familiar faces at Vinnies’ Canning Vale Shop, the pair have become beloved favourites among staff and customers, dedicating a few days a week to supporting the local community.
Peter, a retired teacher of more than 30 years, is about to turn 82 but has no plans to slow down.
For the past four years, Peter has volunteered twice a week, he enjoys the social element of interacting with customers and his fellow volunteers.
“It keeps you active and engaged, and you know you’re doing something worthwhile,” Peter said.
Highly regarded by fellow volunteers and shop manager Harry Singh, Peter’s connection to the organisation has come back full circle.
“Many years ago, I was involved distribution of food for (the St Vincent de Paul Society WA) in Langford,” Peter said.
“My wife would take the phone call from Vinnies, then she'd give me the names and addresses to deliver the food to.”
Joining back in 2023, retired truck driver Ramesh, who recently turned 83, said volunteering at the shop has given him a new lease of life.
Often working behind the scenes sorting donations, what he most enjoys is the routine and sense of purpose that volunteering provides.
“It keeps your mind and body active and it feels good to give something back to the community,” Ramesh said.
Vinnies shops wouldn’t be possible without volunteers like Peter and Ramesh.
Retail revenue is what funds Vinnies WA’s vital programs including Emergency Relief, which provides immediate support to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.
As cost-of-living pressures intensify, so too does the demand for the support Vinnies provides, which is why the role of volunteers is more important than ever.
Vinnies WA is encouraging local residents, particularly retirees and seniors, to consider volunteering at their local shop.
Whether you’re a retiree or simply looking to add some variety to your days, volunteer opportunities across Vinnies are flexible, with roles available across retail, sorting donations and customer service.
As Peter and Ramesh show, volunteering is not only about giving back - it’s about staying active, connected and finding purpose.
“Volunteering is a great way to stay connected, meet new people and make a real difference in your community,” Vinnies WA Manager of Volunteering May Bowden said.
“Many of our volunteers get an immense feeling of joy and purpose in giving back, and that’s what drives them to continue coming back each week.”
Volunteer with Vinnies and give back to your local community. Register your interest today at www.vinnieswa.org.au/volunteer.
“ It keeps your mind and body active and it feels good to give something back to the community.”