Annual Report 2024 - 2025

Volunteers

Volunteering 2024–25: A Year in Pictures

Action that makes a difference

Across CRCS, volunteers create opportunities for independence, social connection and community pride. Whether driving, gardening or supporting creative groups, they make daily life easier and more enjoyable for participants.

Just as importantly, volunteering strengthens the volunteers themselves, building their confidence and belonging, and a sense of personal impact that lasts well beyond the hours they give.

Many have given more than 15 years of service, while others, like Living Well participant Helen, proudly contribute as both volunteer and participant, committed to giving back to her community.

Involve Volunteers: Helping Social Groups Thrive

Our Involve social groups are supported by seven dedicated volunteers, many of whom are also participants. From welcoming people on arrival to lending a steady arm or helping order lunch, their small acts of kindness make a big difference.

In 2024–25, volunteers contributed 15,852 hours to Involve, helping ensure everyone feels safe, included and confident to join in. Their generosity and care create the genuine sense of belonging that makes Involve so special.

Volunteer Drivers on the Road

Volunteer drivers are an essential part of the Living Well family, helping older adults reach appointments, activities and social groups. In 2024–25, nine dedicated volunteers contributed around 50–60 hours each week and brought an incredible 87 years of combined experience — with Gil, Jeremy and Tony each serving more than 15 years.

Their service goes beyond transport; it’s about connection. For many passengers, a lift means conversation, laughter and a sense of belonging. As one team member said, “Volunteers are that extra special piece that keeps our wheels turning.”

The 10/10 Project: Gardens of Gratitude

Sixty volunteers from Housing ACT, ACT Health, Programmed, Department of Social Services, CRCS employees and the local community came together to transform gardens at eight homes across Canberra. The project brought people together through practical teamwork, showing how combined effort contributes to big outcomes. The improved gardens provide safe, accessible outdoor spaces where families, children, pets and people with mobility challenges can relax and enjoy their surroundings.

For Christine, Involve means more than just activities – it’s about skill development, social connection, and a sense of accomplishment. By combining creative and physical activities, she is building the healthy, independent and fulfilling lifestyle she wants.

Gardens of Gratitude

Helen’s Flowers at Belconnen

Helen, a long-time volunteer and Involve participant, continued to brighten the Belconnen Community Centre with her flower arrangements. Her words reflect the experience of many: “Involve means enjoyment and life. It’s like belonging to a bigger family.” Her story is a reminder of how volunteering shapes not just community spaces, but also a person’s own sense of belonging and worth.

Helen’s Story

Fliss’s ‘Volun-cheering’ Thursdays

Every Thursday afternoon, Fliss – a CRCS employee – gives her time to the Yarn & Stitching group. She supports creativity and conversation, describing it as “volun-cheering” because of the enjoyment it creates. For Fliss, volunteering strengthens her own sense of contribution while building relationships that matter.

Fliss’s ‘Volun-cheering’ Thursdays

Children’s Week at GECC

Volunteers joined preschoolers for a gardening project, marking Children’s Week and the theme “Every child has the right to a safe and clean environment.” The intergenerational activity sparked energy, laughter and a sense of shared achievement. It also models for children how community members of all ages can make a positive impact together.

Children’s Week Gardening Fun

Explore More of Our Impact

Each part of our work is connected. Explore more stories, programs and results from across the Annual Report.

Our People

Belconnen Community Centre

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