Every Tuesday and Thursday evening, students and staff generously volunteer their time to the College's Community Companion Van. Hear from regular volunteers, including Maddi (Year 12) and JPC staff member Sarah Bath, as they share their insights on the joys of volunteering, it's benefits, and the personal growth and enrichment it brings.
The Community Companion Van is a great way for students and staff to get involved with our school community, and the wider Frankston community. The Companion Van goes into Frankston every Tuesday and Thursday, and can be a good break from schoolwork, and gives students the opportunity to talk to new people. We serve hot drinks, toasties, other food and sanitary items, and get to connect and have a conversation with people in the community.
I love volunteering for the Companion as I am passionate about helping people. It’s something that has definitely improved my people skills, and I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to regularly participate. Being able to help others alongside other students and staff has been a great way for me to feel more involved in the school community, which is one of the many reasons I volunteer.
Volunteering for the Companion is definitely an experience I'd recommend, and something I have enjoyed doing as a student.
With the weather beginning to cool down and the sunlight fading earlier each night, it is not hard to feel the early bite of the cooler months. As a volunteer on the JPC Companion Van the change in weather reminds me how essential the outreach work our College is committed to. Each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon, volunteers get to spend some time in the community with those who enjoy a cuppa and a chat and an opportunity to connect with others.
Each time I have volunteered on the Van, I have met people who generously share a story or two with me. We talk about sport, bemoan the infamous Melbourne weather, share how our day went, discuss family and find connection over toasties and tea. Volunteering on the van is simply talking to people and offering the hospitality of a hot drink and a toastie.
Hospitality is a value that we are all familiar with and practice regularly.
Why not come and share your hospitality with other people in our community on the JPC Companion Van?