Leila, (who goes by 'Lee') is a very busy woman these days. Now COVID restrictions have eased, and many of our homes are opening up, she has resumed volunteering at St James Villa, at Matraville in Sydney’s east.
“When I was in my forties and newly-widowed, I had a pivotal conversation with a priest and he suggested I volunteer at St James Villa,” says Lee.
Since then, Lee has not looked back, and she is now celebrating more than 30 years volunteer service.
“In the beginning it was more casual, there was no paperwork as such, and I worked as a supervisor on a shift,” says Lee.
“When I did the afternoon shifts, I would get to sleep over at St James overnight, until the next team member took over the following morning."
Lee and a group of about seven others organised meals and set the tables for the residents – as well as everything from cleaning to administering medications and even setting the residents’ hair in the hair salon.
When Catholic Healthcare took over St James, Lee continued working as a volunteer, primarily running the home’s communion service every three weeks.
“During the lockdown the priest live-streamed the Wednesday mass which was really convenient for the residents to still have a way to honour their spiritual life and wellbeing,” says Lee.
“Now that the face-to-face service has resumed it has been so nice to see the residents again and to assist with the regular blessing during the service. The residents just love to have a chat too – it is that sense of connection.”
Lee is a devout Catholic and is personally motivated in her role.
“I love working with the residents. Some of them have wonderful stories to tell and we can learn so much from their wisdom,” says Lee.
Lee is also the catechist coordinator for her local Parish, St Andrews and has volunteered at Chifley, Malabar, and La Peruse Public Schools.
“It’s a dying breed really, and we are all getting on a bit… but we need to recruit some younger blood to take over!” added Lee.
Everyone who meets Lee can see her natural desire to serve the community shines through, along with her passion for helping others. It’s this, and her wisdom, that brings such value to St James residents.
“I do take pleasure in what I do and a lot of this comes down to my faith. I am a self-motivated person who thrives off contributing to others’ wellbeing and I love to keep busy!
“I hope I can keep doing what I am doing for many more years.”
Located on a quiet residential street in Matraville, St James Villa has a welcoming and homely atmosphere with large gardens for enjoying the outdoors. St James Villa caters for 40 residents, and offers comfort and security with 24-hour, seven day a week, registered nursing care. There are a wide range of outings and activities including social outings, art, music and exercise programs.
For more information on St James Villa visit -