Julie’s Story: Connection, Compassion and Companionship

During National Volunteer Week, Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) hosted a special dinner to celebrate and thank the many volunteers who generously give their time to support older members of the community through companionship and connection.

Among those attending was Julie, a long-term volunteer whose warmth, kindness and dedication have touched many lives over the past decade.

Originally from Hungary, Julie began volunteering with AMCS after retiring from her role as a medical centre receptionist in St Kilda. While reading a local newsletter, she came across an advertisement seeking Hungarian-speaking volunteers and immediately felt drawn to the opportunity.

Now in her late seventies, Julie continues to volunteer regularly, providing friendship and companionship to several older community members.

For Julie, volunteering is not simply about helping others. It is about building genuine human connection and making sure people feel less alone.

She shared that one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is listening to people’s life stories and learning from their experiences.

“Everyone has a story worth sharing.”

One of the people Julie supports is a 92-year-old woman originally from Russia who survived World War II and speaks several languages, including Hungarian, Romanian and English. Through their shared language and conversations, the two have built a meaningful friendship that crosses generations and cultural backgrounds.

Over the years, volunteering has become an important part of Julie’s life, bringing not only purpose and routine, but also lasting friendships and connection.

As Julie approaches her 80th birthday, her ongoing dedication to supporting others continues to be a powerful reminder that kindness, empathy and community connection can make a lasting difference at any stage of life.