23 Years of Volunteering – Adeline’s Story

A heartwarming story of connection and contribution in aged care

Adeline has been volunteering at Mayflower Brighton for an incredible 23 years – bringing not only goodies from the Mayflower Gift Shop but also warmth, friendship, and a thoughtful touch that lights up the room.

“I’d always said that when I finished working full time, I’d love to volunteer,” says Adeline. “And one day, a neighbour mentioned Mayflower was just around the corner. I’d been driving past for years and never noticed it!” she laughs.

Adeline soon became a familiar and much-loved face at our Brighton aged care residence and Retirement Living community. Her main role? The ever-popular Gift Shop trolley run.

Treats, Essentials and Friendly Faces

Once a month, Adeline takes the trolley around to residents, offering everything from sweet and savoury snacks to magazines and essentials – especially for those unable to visit the Gift Shop themselves. But most importantly, she offers residents the opportunity for a meaningful connection through conversation.

“I’ve always loved the trolley role,” says Adeline. “It’s not just about the treats – it’s a chance to really connect. I hope it brightens their day.”

She also enjoyed helping behind the counter at the Gift Shop, staying until closing time. These days, Adeline still pops in for an occasional chat and meal at Café VIBE with residents from Mayflower Brighton’s Retirement Living community – though she laughs, “I don’t drink coffee!”

A Deeper Connection and Care

Over the years, Adeline has formed many meaningful connections with residents. “You get to know people over time – and they remember you too,” says Adeline. “It’s those small, shared moments that really matter.”

She also enjoys seeing familiar faces around our Retirement Living community and values the warm, neighbourly feel at Mayflower Brighton.

Family, Baking, and a Full Life

Outside of volunteering, Adeline leads a vibrant and active life. She lives locally with her husband Ed and has two children – Ian, who lives in New York with his wife Tiffanie, and Wendy, who lives in Parkville with her husband Mark and their children, Gemma and Joel.

“My grandkids are the light of our lives,” says Adeline. “Now that they’re living in Melbourne, I’m always baking something for their lunchboxes – muffins, biscuits, you name it!”

During the Covid lockdowns, she used her love of baking to lift spirits around the neighbourhood, making little cookie packs for her neighbours as a cheerful surprise.

She also enjoys tending to her garden when the weather permits, spending time with her sister, and catching up with former workmates.

Why Volunteer at Mayflower?

People like Adeline are at the heart of Mayflower’s goal to empower residents live their lives, their way.

Whether it’s helping with bingo, assisting with creative activities, joining an outing, driving one of our mini buses, or simply sharing a friendly conversation, our volunteers play a key role in supporting the wellbeing and independence of older Australians.

Volunteering opportunities are available at all three of our residences – Mayflower Brighton, Mayflower Reservoir, and Mayflower Edith Bendall in Pascoe Vale.

“We all have a little something we can give,” says Adeline. “It doesn’t have to be big – just showing up and being kind makes a difference.”

We’re truly grateful for Adeline’s long-standing dedication – and we’d love to welcome more kind-hearted people to join our team of volunteers.

Interested in joining us?
Learn more and express your interest with us today.