Following the celebration of National Volunteer Week last month (18-24 May), the St Vincent de Paul Society of WA (Vinnies WA) has paid tribute to one of their volunteers who has retired after 19 years of service.
In 2007, Bernadette ‘Bernie’ Waugh retired from her career as a librarian and turned her attention to volunteering at Vinnies WA.
From lending a compassionate ear as a volunteer call-taker in the Emergency Relief Call Centre to sorting, packing and delivering hampers for the annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal drive in her local community, Bernie consistently went above and beyond to help to support people in need.
For Bernie, volunteering felt like a natural next step.
“When you retire, you’re looking for something to do to use your skills, and if you’re brought up with Christian values, you believe in helping people,” Bernie said.
“Joining Vinnies gave me that opportunity to volunteer and help people at the same time, which felt good.”
As she prepares to hang up her volunteering hat, Bernie reflects fondly on her many years with the organisation and the people she has encountered along the way.
“You talk to some people who just don’t have much, or don’t have anybody to turn to, and it must be really devastating,” she said.
“It makes you realise how lucky you are. We didn’t have a lot of money when we were first married, but I always had support from family, and sometimes you talk to people who don’t have anyone.”
Asked what she will miss most about Vinnies, Bernie’s answer was simple.
“I’ll miss the people, for sure,” she said. “I’ve met some great people here at the call centre. Everyone was always so nice and kind, so it was also a social thing coming here as well as the fact that you are helping people.”
Vinnies WA Manager of Emergency Relief and Member Services, Yogeetha Giri, said Bernie has been a deeply valued member of the Vinnies family and will be greatly missed.
“Bernie is truly one of the most beautiful souls you could ever meet. No matter who she interacted with, people always walked away with a pleasant experience,” she said.
“Bernie always carried herself with kindness, positivity, and a warm smile. She brought such a calming and uplifting presence to Vinnies, and her good vibes will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of working alongside her.”
Sharing her advice with others who are considering volunteering, Bernie said there’s nothing more fulfilling than giving back to others who are less fortunate.
“Volunteer and give the best of what you have back to society. Don’t waste your talents if you’ve got them,” she said.
“Help others where you can – it makes the world a more peaceful place and it’s rewarding at the same time.”