Graeme Gidney, from the Frankston Congregation in Victoria, reflects on his experience of volunteer service, inspired by the care shown by generations before and the enduring principles of the church:
Photo of Graeme Gidney, courtesy of Margaret Morris - Australia Mission Historin
“After working 13 years for others; private enterprise 11 years, the Australian Army for 2 years, then 38 years in our own business - retiring into gardening and travelling seemed a little too quiet.
This was when I realised that my life hasn’t been just for financial reward through employment: I’ve been a youth and children’s volunteer for 40 plus years, an honorary probation officer for 10 years, a priesthood office bearer for 53 years and pastor for 11 plus years. Both [my wife], Helen, and I were brought up by parents who cared about others. So it was natural to see needs and try to do something about it – most of our friends do the same.
Community of Christ has been a major part of our life and the emphasis on the worth of all people - Love, Hope, Peace and Joy, was where we wanted to be involved.
In recent years, after the early death of two good friends to liver and pancreatic cancers (they were both so generous in serving and sharing their lives), we decided, together with a few of our friends, to try and make a difference.
We formed a committee called Support4Pancare with a view to fundraising – this has mainly been via Bunnings sausage sizzles, a special gala dinner and trivia night. All monies raised go toward research, patient and carer support. To date, [the group has been going for] 2 plus years, [and] we have raised nearly $40,000.
Volunteering can make a great difference to people and a society in need.“
