When Carol Connaughton retired five years ago she wanted to help the community.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
So she moved to Maitland and started volunteering with Maitland Regional Art Gallery’s art dementia program in 2013, which gives people with dementia an outing where they look at a range of exhibitions.
Her involvement with the privately funded program, which needs ongoing monetary support, earned her the City of Maitland Service Award – an accolade given to volunteers who provide outstanding service with a group in the city.
“We’re getting a response from people who don't always respond,” Ms Connaughton said. “Some respond more than others.
“We talk about all sorts of things, I enjoy the contact with the people.”
Gail Canning also received a City of Maitland Service Award. She has been a volunteer at Bruce Street Community Hall for almost 20 years and coordinates activities and outings at Green Hills Nursing Home. She also helps cater for East Maitland Rugby League Club.
ROADwhyz Hunter, founded by Michelle Davis after her two teenage sons died in a car crash at Morpeth, received the City of Maitland Medal.
Mayor of Maitland, Cr Peter Blackmore, praised all of the city’s volunteers for their efforts in helping others.
“I feel rather humbled to be in the presence of these volunteers,” he said. “The majority of volunteers volunteer for a number of organisations. They don’t seek recognition or a fuss.”
