National Volunteer Week: Meet Tom

This week is National Volunteers Week and Juniper would like to acknowledge the amazing team of volunteers who support us to allow older Western Australians to live a life well lived.

To celebrate our Juniper volunteers we would like to highlight Tom’s story.

Tom Andrea has been volunteering with Juniper since 2009 as a volunteer bus driver. Wanting to make a difference to the lives of the elderly Tom said, “For the last thirteen years, I have been a volunteer bus driver for Juniper. I take residents on social outings, and I love it. It keeps me busy, and I have made so many friends.”

Tom is also a member of a singing group from his church who come to visit our St Andrew’s location every few weeks.

When asked why he chose to start volunteering with Juniper he said, “I originally started at Juniper because my mother-in-law was living at Ella Williams. It gave me the chance to see her and take her out of the facility with the other residents – I loved my time with everyone, so when she passed, I wanted to continue to spend time with all the residents. They all make me so happy.”

Tom has made many connections over his time volunteering, some sharing his Italian heritage.

“There is a group of Italians who I drive around, and we speak Italian to one another. It makes me feel like I am back home in Italy.”

Tom’s contribution as a volunteer is appreciated by our community of residents, their families and staff.  Volunteers are very important in supporting Juniper provide quality care and support.

Thank you to all volunteers who donate their time, skills and passion to the wider community.

If you are interested in learning how you can volunteer at Juniper visit  www.juniper.org.au/volunteer/