Helping hands, knowing smiles and a life well lived. Come on a journey with us, and let us show you what In Great Company is all about.
Read our stories and share the experiences of real people living their lives to the fullest.
Mariyah’s life-changing volunteer experience
When she first knocked on Elaine’s door, volunteer Mariyah Hoosenally couldn’t have known that soon she would have to be kicked out of that same house at the end of the day, she’d come to love spending time there so much.
Meet the volunteer: Andrew Wells
Would you have thought that In Great Company has up-and-coming actors in its midst? Andrew Wells has been a volunteer with us for many years, and he is now adding movie star to his resume. Learn more about him!
Volunteer superstar wins award
Congratulations to In Great Company’s volunteer Jacky Wilkosz, who won the 2022 Feros Care Volunteer of the Year Award!
Culture and friendship with Fran and Mary
Fran Deakin never thought she would be learning how to make Vietnamese spring rolls as part of her In Great Company companionship program. But her volunteer, Mary, has brought her right out of her shell, teaching her new skills and encouraging her to try new things.
Meet the volunteer: Joanne Cox
Sometimes all we need is someone to eat a lovely seafood lunch by the marina with, or to accompany to the hairdresser. That’s exactly what In Great Company volunteer Joanne Cox has become for 91-year-old Lillian Russell. Below, Joanne shares her experiences volunteering for In Great Company.
Meet the volunteer: Vicki Newman
Vicki Newman knew she wanted to give back to her community and help those who suffer from loneliness connect. When she saw In Great Company mentioned on a Channel 7 Sunrise segment, she felt like she had a calling.
Easing loneliness can go both ways
There is a loneliness epidemic across Australia with 1 in 3 seniors reporting feeling lonely. IGC volunteer Beryn shares how volunteering has helped her just as much as it has helped the senior person she visits.
The mutual benefits of being in great company
There’s a lot of talk about volunteering and just how life-changing it can be. But while we know it can have hugely positive benefits on people in need – how about the positive impacts associated with simply being a volunteer?
Meet the volunteer: Natalie Wynn
Natalie Wayne ended up at In Great Company by chance – but now, she could never go back to not visiting her senior friend, Layne, every week. Their relationship has blossomed, and Natalie says she’s so grateful she signed up.
Loneliness beyond the pandemic
Seniors have endured the worst of loneliness during the pandemic – however, even with things going back to semi-normal, they still need to know they are valued, they are not forgotten, and they play a vital role in our community. This is where In Great Company comes in!
The power of companionship
Elisabeth Barrett had been alone for 12 years when In Great Company visitor Beryn entered her life. Their relationship motivated Elisabeth to get back to the things she loved: like crafts or music! Now she encourages everyone to join the volunteer program!
Meet the staff: Nicole Browne
Nicole has been with Feros Care for a while, but she’s only transitioned to In Great Company 3 months ago – and she’s loving it! Learn more about her background, interests, and her first impression of the IGC volunteer program.
Meet the volunteer: Antonio Morgan
Antonio and Ilona might seem like an unlikley pair, but In Great Company matched them on their interests, and their relationship couldn’t be greater. We sat down with Antonio to find out more about his journey to volunteering and his experiences visiting Ilona.
Meet the staff: Mel Slater
Mel Slater has only been with the In Great Company team since the start of the year, but she’s already been privy to all the wonderful friendships that come out of the volunteer program. Find out more about her!
Insights on finding purpose
We are sharing the uplifting story of Jazmin Theodora with you as part of our efforts to help you find your ikigai – your reason for being. Read on to find out more!
Happy National Volunteer Week!
This National Volunteer Week we are celebrating our In Great Company volunteers and recognising their power to tackle some of society’s greatest challenges.
Therese’s special connection with Sue
In Great Company client Therese Cooney might have family and friends, but she only has one volunteer visitor – and she appreciates her more than anything! Therese and Sue make a great team, and we loved to hear about their budding friendship which benefits both the volunteer and the client. Read more!
Melissa and Ann forge lifelong friendship
In Great Company recognises the need of service that puts its clients first and creates a real difference in the lives of people and those volunteering their time to give back. We sat down with Melissa, and asked her about her experience with her companion client, Ann.
Meet the staff: Sue O’Toole
Sue has been working with Feros Care and In Great Company for a long time, and she enjoys both the work she does and the support she can show to clients and colleagues alike. We sat down to talk about her life journey that has led her here.
3 reasons for volunteering with seniors
At In Great Company, we’re big believers in matching volunteers with seniors who have common interests, hobbies, and values, so that they can build a true friendship. Helen shares her top 3 reasons for choosing to volunteer with seniors.
Ilona the Rummikub Queen
Ilona Wilhems counts herself lucky to have three volunteer companions – especially as she has converted 2 out of 3 of them to Rummikub! She speaks highly of the time she gets to spend with them, and hopes to have their friendship for as long as possible.