By Jed Lanyon
A longtime HICCI volunteer has been recognised for her community work.
Healesville resident Helen Findlay has been volunteering for welfare organisation Healesville Inter-church Community Care Inc for 16 years and was awarded a certificate of recognition from Casey MP Tony Smith.
Ms Findlay said the award was a surprise and something she never expected.
“It was quite a shock to be honest,” she said. “It was recognition for volunteering for the local community, I thought it was quite nice.
“When I retired from work I wasn’t going to sit around and do nothing… I just wanted to help people and do things and help the community and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.”
Ms Findlay volunteers as part of HICCI’s Social Transport Program helping locals travel to various locations such as doctors appointments and shopping centres.
“It’s a good experience, you get to meet people, you get out there and you’re not stuck at home.
“My parents never had this opportunity when they were alive, so I thought if I can help out I will.
“Lots of elderly people can’t use public transport, we don’t have trains, the buses don’t go where you want them to go and the taxis aren’t there when you want them to be. We pick them up from their front door and drop them off again.
“HICCI do a fantastic job in the community, it’s not just the driving, they help people with meals and groceries. THey’re there to help the community, it’s a pity there’s not more organisation’s like it in other towns.”
HICCI is on the lookout for more volunteer drivers for their Social Transport Program. To get involved, contact 5911 6000.
“I enjoy doing it, so I think that people should hop in and help too. It’s a bit of your time here and there but you pick your days and your times,” Ms Findlay said.
