Different Paths, Shared Purpose – Nerine & Corinna’s Stories
19 May 2025
National Volunteer Week 2025
At St George Community, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. During National Volunteer Week 2025, we’re proud to celebrate those who bring people together, provide support, and strengthen our community.
This year’s theme, Connecting Communities, reflects their work – from driving clients to appointments to offering a friendly voice on the phone, our volunteers help keep us connected.
Today we shine the spotlight on two of our office volunteers, Nerine and Corinna.
Nerine Cummins | Office Volunteer
After overcoming a series of very serious health challenges, Nerine Cummins knew she still had more to give.
“I wasn’t able to take on paid work because of my medical issues – but I needed to do something. I needed to be around people,” she said. “Volunteering gave me that connection. If I didn’t have it, I don’t know what I’d do.”
Nerine began volunteering in 2017 and joined St George Community in 2021, helping with office admin tasks one day a week. She also supports people with disability through a group called Adventure Out, taking part in outings to places like the movies, bowling, and even sailing on Sydney Harbour.
“I love it – I’ve made long-term friendships and done things I never imagined,” she says. “If you’re stuck at home, it’s easy to spiral. Volunteering brings you out of your shell.”
Corinna Lam | Office Volunteer
At 68, retired accountant Corinna Lam isn’t slowing down – she’s commuting all the way from Wollongong each week to volunteer at St George Community, where she helps with client registrations, phone enquiries, and transport bookings.
I just wanted to give back,” she said. “It feels really good to be able to help people – and I’m grateful that I still can.”
Corinna began volunteering shortly after retiring from a long career in accounting. Fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese, Corinna says she finds meaning in helping Chinese-speaking clients navigate the system. “There are so many people who struggle with English,” she said. “It’s nice to be able to make things easier for them.”
For Corinna, the benefits of volunteering go both ways. “The people here are so kind – we connect, we go out together, they visit me.
Her advice for anyone considering volunteering?
“Start slow and don’t push yourself. Just try your best – and ask for help when you need it. People will support you, because you’re supporting them.”
We are incredibly grateful to Nerine and Corinna, 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.
