Northern Illawarra Neighbour Aid (NINA) held a volunteer appreciation lunch at Ain't Nonna’s on Wednesday, May 21 in celebration of Volunteer Week.

“Our volunteers don’t often get time to get together, so today is a moment to step aside and show our volunteers that we wouldn’t exist without them,” said organiser Mollie Tangye, a client service officer at NINA.

The Illawarra Flame asked volunteers what they get out of the work they do.

Louise

“I had a medical condition about 12 years ago, and I spoke to NINA, and they actually drove me to my appointments. And then when I got better, I became a volunteer. Volunteering for NINA, I have gained friendship, knowledge and a lot of gossip. You also learn local history, you learn a lot through conversations.”

Pauline

“It’s something to do! When I retired, I was floundering around trying to find something to do. You make some wonderful friends, and it's important to know that you're helping someone to have a good day.”

Peter

“It’s an opportunity to help the community where it’s needed and to meet lots of different and interesting people, and to go places you wouldn't necessarily go otherwise.”

Lyn

“I finished working and wanted something to fill my time, and I’ve enjoyed volunteering with NINA. You get to listen to their stories and meet lots of people. I hope it's around when I need it.”

John

“They never stop thanking you – our clients are so appreciative. Makes it nice as you're driving around, picking people up one on one and they've all got an interesting history to share. I’ve learned so much.”

Georgie

“I saw something about NINA in the paper and thought, ‘Oh, that seems like a pretty cool little thing to do – I’ve got spare time, I can drive.’ It was also a bit relevant to the degree I’m studying – exercise science. I get to meet so many different people from all over the world, drive and chat, and take them wherever they need to go. You meet so many different kinds of people that you wouldn't normally get to.”