A Lifetime of Compassion & Connection – Evelyn Webster
19 May 2025
National Volunteer Week 2025
Evelyn brings a lifetime of compassion, connection, and community spirit to her role as a volunteer carer with St George Community – and she’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Her journey with St George Community began not as a volunteer, but as a client. “I used to think the office staff made so many phone calls – so I offered to help,” she said. “I could see how much work went into making things run smoothly, and I wanted to give back.”
That offer quickly turned into regular volunteer work. She started by calling clients about upcoming trips, then moved into home visiting, playing games, painting nails, and bringing company to people who were feeling isolated. When COVID hit, Evelyn stepped up again – this time as a carer on the buses. Nearly five years later, she’s done it all.
“I’ve seen all sides of it – as a client, in the office, on the buses,” she said. “And I’ve seen how much of a difference it makes in people’s lives.”
One of Evelyn’s most treasured memories is from her time as a home visitor, when she met a woman named Beverly. “She brought out this big box with a game called Rummikub – I’d never played it before,” Evelyn recalled
“She taught me, and we laughed so much. I ended up sharing it with people on cruise ships, in social groups – I even bought the game for others. Her joy spread far beyond her living room.”
Though Beverly sadly passed away, Evelyn said her memory lives on.
For Evelyn, the magic of volunteering lies in those kinds of connections. “It’s just lovely to see the friendships that form. Some people tell me they used to sit at home feeling down – now they’re out with friends, laughing, living,” she said.
Her warmth hasn’t gone unnoticed. She was nominated for a Senior Achievement Award by St George Community and is often recognised by clients when she’s out and about. “People tell me I’m an angel, or their favourite carer – it’s lovely, but I don’t expect it. I just like helping,” she said.
For anyone thinking about volunteering, Evelyn had this to say: “Give it a go. You’ll make a difference – and you’ll get so much back in return.”
We are incredibly grateful to Evelyn and all our volunteers for the time, care, and dedication they bring to St George Community. Their commitment helps keep our community connected and thriving. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the perfect time to get involved. You might just change someone’s life – including your own.
For more information about volunteering opportunities at St George Community, contact Fiona Nelson.
