Every day is a celebration of human kindness for Vicki Giacomin.

For the past 19 years, Vicki has witnessed ordinary people go to extraordinary lengths to serve their community.

“It’s humbling, and it’s a privilege to hear their stories,’’ she says.

Volunteer Coordinator at Centacare, Vicki oversees 70 people in unpaid roles across 12 services.

“I think the common reason people choose to volunteer is for a sense of purpose and to make a difference,’’ she says.

“Our volunteers come from all walks of life. Many are highly skilled. Perhaps they’ve experienced something that makes them want to give back or they might be unsure about what they want to do in life.

“Some people are just wanting to get out of the house and meet new people, and gain experience. For others it’s a gentle way of re-entering the workforce.’’

Vicki’s affiliation with volunteering began in 2001 with Centacare when she was a Volunteer Coordinator for a mobile crèche service with the Northern Parent Resource Program.

As with paid employment, a formal recruitment process is followed. Volunteers are interviewed and then matched to programs that harness their interests and diverse skill sets.

“To see them grow in confidence and self-esteem once they start in their roles is really so satisfying,’’ Vicki says.

“Not only do volunteers give to the community and Centacare but they support one another. There’s a real comradery between them; I’ve witnessed that many times – it’s very moving.’’

At Centacare, volunteers tackle roles from gardening and administration to cooking, crèche work and tutoring.

Vicki urged people who are passionate about a cause to consider volunteering.

“It’s a special thing to do, to give back,’’ she says.

If you are interested in contributing to the work of Centacare, visit our website or phone Vicki on 8252 2311.