A legacy of volunteering

Every Wednesday since 1973, two lovely ladies arrived at our doorstep in Belrose, New South Wales, often armed with fresh baked good, used reading books that others might enjoy, and most importantly a sense of humour and good cheer!

Vera and Margery volunteered their time to help our office run as efficiently and smoothly as possible. Each Wednesday they would hand write envelopes, fold appeal letters and collate donation receipts to forward onto our very generous donors. No office task was too hard, or too tedious.

Gloria Vellely, a former staff member and volunteer tells us: “There was no monetary reward or pay check each week… just acknowledgment from Mr. Lionel Watts that they were an important part of ‘the House’ and that their time and effort was greatly appreciated. That was more than enough for these wonderful ladies.”

Vera and Margery were born in October 1913. World War I started in 1914, so it was a terrible time to start your life’s journey, but those that did truly understood the meaning of resilience, love, compassion and hard work.

Many generous men and women from this time chose to volunteer to help others and assist in being an active part of their community.

After so many years of generosity the ladies both earned the right to rest and put their feet up. Sadly, Vera left us last year, right after her 100th Birthday. However, Margery celebrated her 101th birthday last year. She lives in Wee Waa, NSW and is surrounded by loving family and friends. We hope there is room on the next birthday cake for a few more candles yet.

Thank you Margery, Vera and all our volunteers for your generosity of spirit. As many other gifts of love, the gift of giving of your time, the gift of donating money or a gift in a Will, they are all long lasting legacies of those who have people with disabilities in their hearts.