Marking National Volunteer Week, more than 150 Fronditha Care volunteers were honoured for making a difference to the lives of the elderly in Australia.

Fronditha Care’s annual volunteer recognition ceremony was hosted on Wednesday 22 May 2019 at Greythorn Community Centre in Box Hill, honouring years of voluntary service.

After 39 years at Fronditha Care, former President, Vice-President and Treasurer Jacob Fronistas OAM was given a fitting send off after announcing his retirement.

The outgoing Director was the keynote speaker at the event, and spoke about his experiences in shaping the organisation over four decades and the important role volunteers played in Fronditha Care’s success.

“I have witnessed the joy of the elderly at various functions and what a difference has been made to their lives, where they would have been, isolated, miserable and depressed in mainstream facilities with no Greek language, culture or traditions,” he said.

“Being a Fronditha Care volunteer has resulted in being part of the “Fronditha Family”, where caring for each other and the elderly is an important part of the success of Fronditha Care.”

READ MORE: $65,000 raised for dementia care at Fronditha Care Gala Dinner

 

CEO George Lekakis also congratulated Mr Fronistas on his huge contribution to the organisation, and personally thanked him for his learned counsel during his time as CEO.

Volunteers from across the organisation, whether it be the Board of Directors, the Auxiliary fundraising groups or the volunteers who visit the elderly in nursing homes or those still living at home were invited to the event. Those who have been with the organisation for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 40 years were also given certificates for their years of service.

Rita Gabriel OAM, who has been an integral member of the Templestowe Auxiliary and helped the organisation raise thousands of dollars was singled out for 40 years of service.

Each volunteer was also given a Greek coffee cup as a small gift, something many of the volunteers enjoy doing with residents or clients during their visits.
Fronditha Care has long supported volunteers in the community, and offers all those wanting to become volunteers a special induction service and ongoing training.

Volunteers don’t just visit Fronditha Care nursing homes or clients, but are free to visit anyone who is in need of help or company.
Last financial year, more than 3800 volunteer hours were logged by Fronditha Care volunteers.

To become a volunteer or to find out more about the program, visit https://frondithacare.org.au/become-a-volunteer/ or call 03 9552 4100.