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.
Happy New Year from us!
As a new year begins, we reflect on 2020 and wish to express our gratitude for our amazing volunteers. We couldn’t have done it without you!
6 reasons to sign up as a volunteer in 2021
If one of your goals is to become happier or more connected with the local community in the new year, we have the perfect way to give back or support those in need. The answer is volunteering with In Great Company!
Spread merriness with everyone
This Christmas, we encourage you to give back in your own way with the More the Merrier campaign – whether that’s by inviting someone to your Christmas lunch, or spreading the festive cheer by bringing your neighbours some Christmas treats. Find out more!
From planes to volunteering
As the partner of a Feros Care residential village resident, Leon’s decision to volunteer didn’t come as a surprise. He continues to look after and support the residents even through the pandemic. Read his story!
Giving back this Christmas
Two In Great Company volunteers recently went above and beyond to host a special Christmas lunch for the clients they visit. We had a chat with Liz and Michael about the event, and what it means for them to volunteer with seniors.
The power of connection
Mutual hobbies and interests are a great way to build valuable connections, and the proof is in the pudding for IGC client Marianne and her community visitor Elisabeth. Read their story here!
Training opportunity – Elder abuse information
Learn more about elder abuse and how you can use your knowledge to help the problem. Click here to read more!
Keeping well at home during COVID-19
Learn how to support the mental and physical wellbeing of older people living at home during COVID-19.
Video chats ease isolation
Physical distancing does not mean we have to be disconnected. Find out what older adults can do now to ease the distance.
Exciting virtual host opportunities
In Great Company has several exciting opportunities for volunteers to host interactive virtual sessions through the Virtual Social Centre.
Training opportunity – Harvard University
Ever wanted to study at Harvard? Now you can, with the prestigious university offering free courses for those across the globe. Here are our top 5 picks.
Self-care September
We would like to encourage everyone to be kinder to themselves (as well as others), especially when things go wrong. Follow our tips to increase resilience and get more out of life.
In a digital world, Gail’s handmade cards surprise clients
Despite many activities becoming digitised and communication occurring in an instant, for many there remains a delight in receiving a handmade card. Maybe, they’re even more valuable now?
Gran Slam is back
After a huge success in 2019, Gran Slam, a slam poetry project, is back. Register yourself or encourage someone you visit to register.
Oh the stories you’ll tell!
Volunteer Roz encourages anyone who may be thinking about doing some voluntary work to go ahead – you will bring joy and smiles to many and help make their day.
Resource app for volunteers launches
National advocacy organisation , Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN),has launched new elder abuse prevention resources.
Training opportunity – Emotional support
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Swinburne Wellbeing Clinic for Older Adults is now offering a free telehealth service to provide ongoing emotional support during this challenging period.
Nothing like a fresh coat of paint and a new friendship
Volunteering can be the start of something new and beautiful – just as was the case with Elisabeth and Helen in Hervey Bay.
Tips from a pro volunteer
An expert in the trade with extensive experience in volunteering for various organisations, Wendy offers her advice to those new to the role.
All you need is a phone to make a difference
Volunteering over the phone or online means you can donate your time to a cause that matters, which means you can make a difference in the safety of your own home and forge new friendships, like Dian and Betty’s.
Free training – The Loneliness Dialogue
For older adults, staying social during isolation, while maintaining a physical distance, is vital. Learn more about what we can all do to reduce loneliness from this year’s virtual Loneliness Dialogue.