Dawn Finds Joy in Volunteering

The benefits of volunteering and being part of a community are numerous. Whether it’s gaining new experiences and skills, developing lasting friendships and professional networks or building confidence and personality, there’s always something to gain by helping others.

Regis Sandgate Musgrave resident, Dawn Porter, initially started volunteering after work and during her free time. She would often visit aged care homes and offer her services wherever she could, which included social visits and helping residents to navigate their home.

Dawn volunteered for many years and was recognised by different organisations, including the Prince Charles Hospital Health Service District and the Brighton Health Campus, where she volunteered for 20 years. Dawn also helped to pioneer the Meals on Wheels initiative at Geebung, an organisation that delivers cooked meals to older persons at their homes and in aged care communities.

Despite spending much of her time volunteering, Dawn always found time for fun, including dancing, drumming and singing with community groups. As a passionate singer and dancer, Dawn’s love of music motivated and inspired her to share her talents with everyone. Dawn often sung and danced her way into and around aged care homes during her visits.

Dawn now resides at Regis Musgrave, which she has called her home for almost a year. She keeps herself busy by encouraging her fellow residents to join in lifestyle activities, feeding the local birds and going for relaxing beach walks. Dawn is also still an active member of her community choir group, MLOC Singers.

To Dawn, there’s nothing she loves more than making other residents and employees smile. Her selfless volunteer efforts are appreciated by all.

Regis offers a diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year.

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