14 Years of Volunteering With Warwick

Warwick first heard about Waipuna hospice when a close friend was referred as a patient. After seeing the level of care provided, Warwick went on to become a Waipuna Hospice member, then later a volunteer.

During Warwick’s time as a charity shop volunteer he has seen and done it all.

“Over the years I’ve done just about everything. From helping refurbish our shops, to making deliveries, picking up donations, fixing furniture and weed eater motors, helping on the till, stocking shelves, repainting goods…the list goes on. You name it, I’ve done it”.

“The most rewarding thing about being a volunteer for me is the people, both within the team and our customers. Waipuna Hospice isn’t tied to one interest group, meaning our team and customer come from all walks of life. Every day I learn more about different people who I work with as a volunteer. It’s just so interesting.”

“I also enjoy encouraging people to realise that charity shops aren’t junk shops. It’s actually repurposing quality goods that would otherwise go to landfill”.

For Warwick, volunteering is an important way for him to stay connected and active in the community during retirement.

“As we get older it’s important that we stay in the cycle of life and continue to have worth. Some people find that difficult when they don’t have a job. It’s so important to get involved. Volunteering gives us new friendships, new relationships, and new ideas from people who come from new walks of life. Volunteering gives us the chance to learn from that and find a new sense of worth in retirement”.