Celebrating National Volunteer Week

For National Volunteer Week 2018, Montefiore recognised our more than 400 dedicated volunteers with a garden party at Hunters Hill.

Guests were treated to a delicious morning tea as they heard from two inspiring volunteers, Holocaust Survivor and self-proclaimed ‘Happiest Man on Earth’ Eddie Jaku OAM, and distinguished academic and writer Professor Colin Tatz AO.

The remarkable 98-year-old Jaku, who runs his popular ‘Mondays with Eddie’ catch-ups at Montefiore Randwick, reflected on how his experiences as a survivor had taught him the value of being a mensch. “Anyone who wants to be my friend, is my friend,” he explained. “Tolerance, understanding and friendship are the most important aspects of life.”

Mr Tatz, 84, explained how the topical discussion group he hosts at Hunters Hill represents the pinnacle of his long teaching career. “The residents’ thirst for interaction and discussion with a live human being is wonderful – they don’t want to watch a video or a screen like younger generations, they want to connect with other people.”

Montefiore President David Freeman AM and CEO Robert Orie presented 89 volunteers with awards for long service on the day, who together have dedicated 928 years to the community. Each gives their time to bring help, companionship and joy to the older members of our community

Award recipient Michael Rabin gave an impromptu thanks on behalf of the crowd, affirming that “You get back so much more than you give. Coming here to Montefiore grabs you by the heart and takes you in, and it’s a real pleasure to spend time with the residents.”

Find out more about volunteering at Montefiore.