‘Making a world of difference’

National Volunteer Week 2019 - ‘Making a world of difference’. To celebrate National Volunteers week, we sat down for a Q&A with John Stapleton, a member of the volunteer squad at Western Chances.

1) Tell us a bit about yourself?
I live in Kingsville, walking distance from Western Chances where I volunteer one day a week.  Prior to my retirement last year, I worked in the TAFE/vocational training division of the state Department of Education and Training.  My interests include reading, swimming, cycling, football (AFL and A League), lunching and grandchildren.
2) What are some of the jobs do you do as a volunteer at Western Chances?
I help out with a wide range of administrative tasks associated with running the scholarships program and Western Chances special events. 
3) Why did you choose to work as a volunteer?
Through my work, I heard about the great work done by Western Chances to create better educational opportunities for students in the western metro region experiencing financial hardship.  I wanted to devote some of my retirement time to help them achieve this objective, and in doing so, utilise my knowledge and local networks.
4) What's your favourite part of volunteering at Western Chances?
I love working with the dedicated team at Western Chances and seeing the success stories of the students and alumni in educational attainment, employment outcomes and community engagement.
5) What do you think are the personal benefits of volunteering?
The big benefits of volunteering for me are the inspiration I get from being part of a worthwhile charity, the regular social contact with the Western Chances workplace, and the brain stimulation from my work contribution to the organisation.

Western Chances volunteers are the BEST!!!
In 2018, our regular office volunteers clocked up over 825 hours working to keep the cogs turning and saving Western Chances more than $20,000 in additional salaries. Thanks to John, Rita, Anna and Lyn for your ongoing weekly assistance in the office.
Thanks also to all our other volunteers who freely give their time to assist with events, audits, governance, public speaking gigs and so much more. Your support has provided immense unmeasurable value to Western Chances.
“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn