Could volunteers hold the key to happiness?

Volunteers are happier people according to many studies. These three ladies think they know why.

Angela, Jenny and Tu volunteer for not-for-profit organisation VMCH, at its Multicultural Wellness Centre. They agree it is one of the highlights of their week. They help out at the Chinese Social Support Group, for people aged over 65 years.

“I love coming out to meet people and help them. We laugh together. We tease each other. It is very enjoyable,” Angela said.

All three ladies help run a jam-packed program at the Chinese Social Support Group. It includes morning tea, Tai Chi, and lunch together at local restaurants. They also sometimes head out for fun outings.

“When I come here and see the elderly, I talk to them, join in their board and card games. They sometimes need help with different things. It is my pleasure to help them,” Jenny said.

Angela and Jenny run a Tai Chi exercise class. Tu, who speaks little English, enjoys a chat in Mandarin and Cantonese with older people in the group that might feel isolated because of language barriers.

When it comes to the members of the Chinese Group, there is no doubt that the volunteers help make their life happier too!

The Multicultural Wellness Centre’s Leisure and Lifestyle Coordinator Rani Wong says the volunteers help tackle the growing problem of social isolation for its ageing Chinese community.

The Eastern Metropolitan Regions has a significant ageing Chinese population. Many have poor English speaking and reading skills. This significantly impacts their ability to access important services for their mental and physical health.

“Many of our older clients experience social isolation. The language barrier makes it harder to find the support they need,” Rani said.

“Our volunteers are very committed. They are helping others, making a meaningful contribution to a better community.”

Find out more about VMCH.