Sarah has been volunteering with Youngcare for just over a year and can’t get enough! Below she tells us her motivation for helping change the lives of young Aussies with high care needs.
“I have had the pleasure of volunteering with children with disabilities for many years, however when I started studying and subsequently working as an Occupational Therapist, I realised just how vast the gap is in the provision of age appropriate services for young adults with high care needs. It is both heartbreaking and frustrating when you see people your own age having their lives changed dramatically by accident, illness or disease and being left with limited options, such as moving to aged care facilities, to have their basic daily care needs met.
I first heard about Youngcare and their work to provide age appropriate care for young people with high care needs whilst at uni, and was inspired to finally get involved by a friend of mine who was already volunteering (and always telling me what a great time she had!). When you find something you are passionate about it can be daunting and challenging to know how to get involved and make a difference, but through volunteering, Youngcare has given me the opportunity and flexibility to pursue my passion to bring about change in this area.
When volunteering with Youngcare you are instantly a valued member of the team and can feel the passion and commitment that the staff and volunteers bring to every event.
They are a truly unique and dedicated group who are continuing to set goals and achieve them, making a difference and effecting change at individual, community and government levels. You cannot help but be inspired when you’re involved with Youngcare. Regardless of how much or how little time you have, you are always making a difference to the lives of young Australians.”
– Sarah Paget