Ross Home Library volunteers’ interview with Judith Shields and Noel Kane
Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu – National Volunteer Week honours the collective energies and mana of volunteers in Aotearoa. They grow our people, open minds, open hearts and create joy. This year’s theme is Whiria Te Tangata – Weaving the people together. So we wanted to shine a light on two of our Ross Home Volunteers, Noel and Judith, who work together to deliver library books to the residents. The library system is run by a team of four.
How did you get involved?
Judith - I have supported the foodbank. When I retired and thought I should give back to the community. I live near to Ross Home and like books.
Noel – I didn’t really have a choice (laughs). I was told by you (points to Jasmin, the PSO Volunteer Coordinator who is interviewing the pair).
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
Judith – I’m sharing my passion for reading and feel like I’m making a difference for the residents that have mobility access issues to the library. We bring the books they want to them. Often the books are the least important part of the role. It’s about having a chin-wag. The residents like to talk about their week.
Noel – We both really enjoy the interactions and contact with the residents. I have gotten to know them and they are pleased to have a chat and a laugh. I look forward to seeing them and offering some social interaction.
How do you think your role benefits the residents?
Noel – Some residents don’t want a book, but they enjoy us popping in to offer anyway, it’s an opportunity to have a conversation. We get to know residents well and can get held up chatting. That’s why it’s good to have two of us working as a team.
Judith - Being the brightness in some people’s week. They look forward to the library trolley and like to share news of their week with us. They sing out “Just what I need, new books to read!”.
What Ross Home staff have to say about Noel and Judith.
They have a great rapport with the residents, who look forward to seeing them. They know the residents really well and go the extra mile. We couldn’t do it without them! – Michelle Marsh, Activities Coordinator.
If you would like to find out more about volunteering visit our volunteering pages for current vacancies.