Red Cross Mates program is now recruiting volunteers to provide friendly support and assistance to people in the community that may be suffering for mental health issues.
Red Cross provides full support and training for the program and the opportunity to develop a rewarding friendship and contribute to their community.
Some Mates experiences:
At a social lunch a volunteer organised a special celebration for her mate's 50th birthday, the participant said it was one of the few times in her life that she'd had a proper party.
A volunteer mate used his mechanical skills to help make a car roadworthy for his mate participant. Now his mate is actively involved in a community group for men and is back playing music with members of his old band, he just needed transport to get there!
A previous participant in the program said 'because of my involvement in the program I can now answer the phone and go outside without excessive anxiety, and I can often be caught laughing and singing.' She now has no more need for the program and has made way for someone else to gain help and assistance.
There are many other exciting and inspiring stories which could be told. It is truly fulfilling to see people regain confidence, reconnect to their community and have fun in the process.
If you would like to find out more about the Mates program please call 1800 246 850.
