19 May 2026
This National Volunteer Week, we proudly celebrate and thank the incredible volunteers who generously give their time, compassion and friendship to the people we serve each day.
Led by Volunteering Australia, the 2026 theme ‘Your Year to Volunteer’ recognises the important role volunteers play in communities across Australia and encourages people to get involved in ways that work for them.
At our Stretton Gardens residential care home, that spirit shines brightly through volunteers like Gabriella, who has volunteered at Stretton Gardens for almost six years.
“I found it lonely and boring at home after a late retirement,” Gabriella said. “I have experience in the care sector in both elderly and childcare, so I asked my daughter to help me look online for a role in those fields and fate intervened when I saw that Stretton Gardens was looking for volunteers.”
Gabriella now volunteers two days a week and says it is the residents and staff who keep her coming back. “I come because of the residents and the interactions I have with them and the team. We are like family,” she said.
For Gabriella, volunteering has created connection and purpose. “I feel like I am spending my days making a difference and bringing joy and comfort to others,” she said.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the wellbeing of older people by helping reduce social isolation and providing companionship.
Gabriella encourages anyone considering volunteering to simply give it a go. “If you try, you will be surprised how rewarding it is and the feeling you get when you make someone’s day better,” she said.
This National Volunteer Week, we thank all SCC volunteers who live our values of Service, Courage and Compassion every day. And for anyone thinking about getting involved, let 2026 be Your Year to Volunteer.
Photo 1 – From L to R: Stretton Gardens Lifestyle Team Leader Kelly O’Brien with Residential Manager, Gurjot Dillon, & volunteer Gabriella.
Photo 2 – Stretton Gardens volunteer Gabriella with resident Ross.
