Cordelia, who goes by the nickname ‘Coco’, visits the Payneham residential facility Trowbridge House every week to read and play games with residents.

Coco’s mother Kathryn Fitzharris, who also volunteers at Trowbridge House, said she and Coco enjoy connecting with members of their community.

“Volunteering allows Coco to meet new people she wouldn’t usually encounter,” said Kathryn.

“It’s a great experience for Coco because she’s learning to develop empathy for others and has developed a great relationship with one resident who is 85 years her senior.”

Eldercare has teams of volunteers helping at its 12 residential care facilities across the Greater Adelaide and Yorke Peninsula regions.

Their assistance includes spending one-on-one time with residents, leading special interest groups, supporting community outings and performing concerts.

Volunteer Program Coordinator Kylie Maher said National Volunteer Week provided a great opportunity to celebrate the ‘priceless contribution’ made by Eldercare volunteers.

“Volunteers are some of our residents’ most regular visitors,” said Kylie.

“Kathryn and Coco help residents to maintain their social connections, which are integral to health and wellbeing as we age.”

Eldercare will celebrate National Volunteers Week with events planned at its residential care facilities where volunteers will receive personalised written cards and gifts.

National Volunteer Week will be celebrated from 20 – 26 May 2019.

Contact Kylie Maher on 8291 1000 for more information about volunteering opportunities at Eldercare.

Image: Eldercare Trowbridge House resident Irene Habicht takes volunteer Coco Stevens on a tour of the facility’s gardens.