Committed to volunteering

Volunteer Rolf with residents from Highercombe visiting The Dutch Pantry

Exploring the volunteer paths of Rad, Lynette and Rolf

Let’s discuss the benefits of volunteering and the opportunities it provides for people to connect and socialise. Whether you’re 20 or 70 years old, there’s a wealth of knowledge, skills, and life experiences you can share to support and uplift others.

To showcase the diverse backgrounds of our volunteers, we’d love to introduce you to three ACH Group volunteers: Rad, Lynette, and Rolf.

Meet Rad, volunteer at Healthia Residential Care Home

Not long ago, Cate Balfour-Ogilvy, ACH Group’s Volunteer Services Manager, mentioned that we had a new volunteer at Healthia. She spoke about him with great excitement; in fact, she couldn’t stop raving about him.

Meet Rad, who relocated to Australia from Bangladesh in 2023 with the goal of studying, gaining experience in health and aged care, immersing himself in the culture, connecting with people, and ultimately joining ACH Group as a volunteer.

When you’re 26 years old and move to another part of the world, it can present many challenges, from cultural differences to finding your community where you can belong.

We hope that Rad’s story will inspire more young people to volunteer, as that is what social inclusion encompasses.

Rad and Natasha at Healthia
Volunteer Rad and Multiskilled Care Worker Natasha at Healthia. One of the reasons Rad started volunteering was to meet new people. Little did he know that Natasha is also from Bangladesh.
How would you introduce yourself?

Hello, I’m Rad Sarar Humayun Arnab, a certified Individual Support professional with two years of experience as a Medical Assistant in Bangladesh. I’m passionate about providing compassionate care and creating a positive impact on people’s lives. 

What motivated you to become a volunteer at ACH Group?

A friend shared their incredible volunteering experiences. Witnessing their enthusiasm and the organisation’s commitment to making a positive impact inspired me. Volunteering also feels personally rewarding. I believe this experience will not only be fulfilling on its own but could potentially open doors for me to transition into a carer or support worker role within the organisation in the future. I am thrilled about the prospect of contributing to such a dynamic team and growing both personally and professionally with ACH Group.

What is your favourite part about volunteering?

Knowing I’m actively contributing to the wellbeing of others. It’s not just about the tasks I perform but the positive impact I can make on someone’s day or life. The joy and gratitude I receive in return are priceless, making every moment spent volunteering incredibly rewarding.

Any volunteering stories or experiences you’d like to mention?

Volunteering at Healthia, I’ve observed that many residents prefer non-verbal communication. By understanding their unspoken cues, I’ve been able to build trust so they are comfortable with me being around. This experience highlights the importance of empathy and understanding that everyone has different needs.

What would you tell someone who is not sure about becoming a volunteer?

I would encourage someone unsure about volunteering by emphasising the transformative impact it can have, not only on the community but on their own life. Volunteering provides a unique opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and a sense of purpose. It’s a chance to make a positive difference in the lives of others and contribute to a cause that aligns with their values. I would suggest starting with a small commitment to see how fulfilling and enriching the experience can be, and from there, they might discover the joy and satisfaction that comes with giving back.

Lynnette and Rolf – volunteers at Highercombe Residential Care Home

Meet Lynette and Rolf, the family duo with big hearts and a shared commitment to enriching people’s lives through volunteering. With their lifelong dedication to helping others, we feel privileged to share their story with the wider community.

Lynette and Rolf, we’re incredibly grateful that you’ve chosen ACH Group to continue bringing joy to the residents at Highercombe.

Rolf, Heather and Lynette at Highercombe
Volunteers Rolf (left) and Lynette (right) with Margaret, resident at Highercombe (in the middle).
How would you introduce yourself?

Lynette: Hi there, I’m Lynette Geerling. My background involves teaching in diverse settings across rural, remote, and overseas communities. I’ve volunteered in prisons, facilitated a women’s shed in an indigenous community, and welcomed foster children and young people from South Africa into our home for educational opportunities in South Australia.

Rolf: Hello! I’m Rolf Geerling. I’ve spent most of my life in country and outback South Australia, wearing various hats from educator to pastor. Recently, I’ve been involved with volunteering at the Men’s Shed in Booleroo Centre. If you ever get the chance, Coober Pedy is a gem!

What motivated you to become volunteers at ACH Group?

Lynette: I was approached by a staff member at Highercombe during visits to see my mother. Witnessing the significance of spending time with residents motivated me to join in.

Rolf: While visiting my late mother-in-law at Highercombe, I noticed the impact volunteers had on the residents. I thought, “I could do that,” and here I am.

What is your favorite part about volunteering?

Lynette: I’m moved by the wealth of wisdom and stories residents offer when I take the time to listen. Seeing the difference, it makes in their sense of value and acknowledgement is truly rewarding.

Rolf: The richness of knowledge and experiences that residents share blows me away. It’s incredible how much I’ve learned just from conversations with various people.

Any volunteering stories or experiences you’d like to mention?

Lynette: I’ve been surprised by the connections and commonalities I’ve discovered with residents. Even when our paths differ, there’s so much I can learn from them.

Rolf: Funny thing happened the other day while driving residents around the Adelaide Hills. One of them had worked in every church we passed through, as had my brother-in-law. Small world, isn’t it?

What would you tell someone who is not sure about becoming a volunteer?

Rolf: Don’t let age or any misconceptions hold you back. Your background, skills, and interests can be valuable assets here. Your only challenge might just be finding a parking spot at Highercombe when it gets busy.

Lynette: Engaging with strangers initially felt daunting, but being part of caring for the community has been immensely rewarding. The acceptance from both residents and staff has made me grow as a person.

Ready to start something new?

Register your interest to volunteer at ACH Group.

Read about the benefits of volunteering, and how to get started.

Learn more about the residential and community based social, wellbeing and support programs at ACH Group.

Social inclusion week

Social Inclusion

Connect, collaborate & celebrate for social inclusion

Social Inclusion Week (18 – 26 November 2023) aims to help all Australians feel included and valued, giving everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society.

Social inclusion is defined as the process of improving the terms of participation in society, particularly for people who are disadvantaged, through enhancing opportunities, access to resources, voice and respect for rights.

The Inclusive Australia Social Inclusion Index (2022-21 Report) indicated that people engage with social inclusion in a variety of ways and although prejudicial attitudes against some groups of people are lower on average, they are still present and problematic.

Being socially inclusive encompasses encouraging communities to reconnect across cultures, age groups, nationalities and abilities.

Social inclusion across ACH Group communities

At ACH Group, we value connected communities and social connections. It is more important now than ever to encourage customers, staff and the community to connect with one another.

Discover & Explore experiences

ACH Group offers social experiences for people to connect with friends or meet new ones while explore an exciting destination or experience in South Australia.

Our offering includes day tours, getaways, and experiences in categories across art and culture, sport and recreation, entertainment and technology. See all Discover & Explore experiences.

Supporting your best life

As we get older and our circumstances change, additional support and companionship offer many benefits. Whether it’s help with tasks around the home or having someone who can accompany you to social outings or appointments, a support worker can help maintain your independence and social engagement.

Your best self starts with your best health

Whether it’s being able to enjoy activities that you love or trying new ones, recovering from a setback, or managing an ongoing condition, ACH Group health and wellbeing services combine exercise and education to promote independent living and positive health outcomes.

Retirement living communities

The opportunities for social inclusion in ACH Group retirement living community are ever present, with regular coffee catch ups, information sessions and activities at community hubs. Learn more about retirement living at ACH Group.

Healthy ageing approach

We believe that older people should continue to live full and active lives.

Social inclusion in every ACH Group residential care home is encouraged through a wide range of activities and programs including social events and outings, arts and cultural activities, men’s groups and strong community links. Learn more about healthy ageing approach.

Volunteering opportunities

Volunteering is a great way to stay in touch with your community and contribute your knowledge, skills, and life experience to support others and make a difference to someone’s life. Learn more about volunteering at ACH Group.

Social Inclusion Week 2023

This Social Inclusion Week, we are sharing stories from the community, while providing opportunities for engagement in various activities.

We will explore answers to these questions…
  • How can we encourage social inclusion in your community?
  • How can we promote intergenerational activities?
  • How can we celebrate men’s role in the community through social programs?
  • What are the pathways to social inclusion and to take the first step?
  • What are the benefits of volunteering and how can you get started?
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to join the conversation.

As feeling socially connected is more important than ever, explore the endless benefits of maintaining social connections.

Celebrating Diwali

Clay Diya lamp, celebrating Diwali

Embracing the Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the annual Festival of Lights celebrated by millions of people around the world.

It symbolises the spiritual ‘victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.’

At ACH Group, we value inclusivity and are keen to explore the festivities of Diwali, a meaningful celebration for many on our team and in our community.

Join us on this journey of appreciation and discovery, as we embrace the rich traditions and personal stories that make Diwali significant to our diverse community.

Sumeet, Mamata, Suman and Jay share what Diwali means to them

Sumeet Gupta, Funding & Care Planning Manager

Sumeet's celebration at home, photo of Sumeet's daughter

 

This is my daughter decorating the one at the entrance before we sit down for our prayers! On this day, we invite Goddess Luxmi, the deity of prosperity and wealth to our house with traditional lights (diyas) and rangoli (a mandala with colours). 

Cultural traditions play a crucial role in defining personal identity. Within a diverse workplace, acknowledging different traditions enhances the feeling of inclusiveness and respect for diversity.

Diwali is the main cultural festival for people in India, although it is also celebrated by Hindus in other countries, such as Nepal. This festival signifies that, ultimately, good prevails over evil, and light symbolises this understanding. On this day, people worship for prosperity, peace, and good health.

The event is celebrated with the lighting of lamps, prayers, and exchanging of gifts. There is a lot of diversity in how this festival is celebrated in different parts, but the overarching theme remains the same.

I will be celebrating with my family by lighting lamps around my house, holding prayers within the prayer room with my close family only, elders blessing the youngsters, and then going out for a meal together. I would have exchanged gifts with close friends and relatives by then.

I believe there is now a much greater appreciation for this festival. This event helps us connect with others on a cultural platform. For me, cultural events remain very personal.

Mamata Shrestha, Community Connector Leader at ViTA Residential Care Home

Mamata with her husband, celebrating Deepavali

Here is a photo of me and my husband. My fondest memory of Deepawali/Tihar is spending hours decorating the house with lights and performing Deusi/Bhailo, traditional folk songs sung during the Tihar festival on the nights of Lakshmi Puja.

That was almost a few years ago. After arriving in Australia, these festivals have taken on a different meaning. Now, every year, we celebrate them with our friends here with the same energy and enthusiasm. The photo above is from last year during Laxmi puja.

The dance that we performed at ViTA is the traditional Nepali dance performed on the night of Deusi Bhailo. I am passionate about dancing, and this is one of my self-care activities. This year is very special for us as we have a place to call our home. Starting from Saturday, we will begin cleaning and decorating our home with lights. Friends gathering, food, and fun – that’s what we are looking forward to this Deepawali.

Wishing you and your family a joyous and beautiful festival of lights. Happy Deepawali!

Suman Thakur, Rostering Team Leader Residential Services

Suman celebrating Diwali with her family

Culture holds immense significance in my life (here I am pictured with my family), and for many others as well. Cultural traditions encompass a variety of customs, rituals, music, dance, and values that have been passed down through generations. For Indians, culture is a source of identity, connecting them to their roots. Festivals like Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm and bring about a strong sense of community.

During Diwali, people light oil lamps or diyas, decorate their homes with colorful rangoli (artistic mandala patterns), exchange gifts, and participate in prayers and religious ceremonies. It truly brings families together to pray, feast on delicious sweets and savory dishes, and creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Overall, Diwali contributes to positivity and is a time of renewal, celebrating life’s positive aspects.

Along with the vibrant decorations of Rangoli and Diyas, cleaning homes and prayers are important during Diwali. Thorough cleaning is done to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to bring prosperity. Families also come together for special prayers and religious ceremonies.

Usually, many of our family friends come together and celebrate at one place. Indian traditional clothing is a must at festivals! Each individual’s unique style of bright colors adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Families also prepare a variety of indulgent special dishes to share with family and friends.

I joined ACH Group in April 2023 and have been amazed by the diversity and inclusivity of the team and how collaboration happens across the organisation.

For me, culture and tradition play a vital role in remembering the teachings of my parents and shaping the way I lead my life. Though it can sometimes become unclear, having strong willpower helps me keep my roots firmly grounded.

Diwali is a celebration of  the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. As it is a festival celebrated by many around the world, the meanings may differ slightly across the world.

This year, as my parents are not here, I will be celebrating the day with my wife, following our tradition.

If there’s one thing I hope people will appreciate about Diwali, it’s how wonderful and colorful this festival is, and hopefully, more will join in the following year.

With the diverse population in Australia, it would be good to share our knowledge about Diwali, and ask our friends and peers to join us in this celebration.

 

Discovering the charm of Nepal during the Deepavali festivities

The social team at ViTA Residential Care Home recognised a wonderful opportunity to introduce Nepal and Deepavali to residents, staff, and volunteers as part of the social program for all residential care homes.

We were honoured to have Mamata, the ViTA Community Connector Leader, leading this armchair travel social event. What made it particularly special was that Mamata, along with some other ViTA staff members, is from Nepal and together they could provide an authentic experience for everyone.

There were original costumes from Nepal, and as part of the celebration, gulab jamun (a small donut-like dessert covered in rose syrup) was served. The room was decorated with lights, Nepali flags and rangoli.

Following the presentation of information about Nepal and the origin of the festival, Charissa, the ACH Group Event Planner, introduced the main program – an authentic music and dance performance.

The dance that the team performed was the traditional Nepali dance for the night of deusi bhailo. The group is usually composed of a lead chanter/singer and a chorus group and sometimes additional participants such as musicians and dancers.

Watch the recording of a segment of the dance performed by Mamata and Shruti

At ACH Group, we recognise that embracing diversity goes beyond acknowledgment it requires proactivity and action.

We take pride in seeing our teams fostering workplace culture and taking the opportunity to share the vibrant tapestry of cultures within ACH Group.

A Diwali Celebration to Remember

This year marked a significant shift in our approach to celebrating cultural diversity in the workplace. Suman, along with Jay, Sumeet, and Ashwin, took the initiative to propose a united celebration, bringing together members from various teams at our Mile End office, rather than the usual approach of celebrating with their respective teams. With the support of the People & Culture Team, they organised a celebration, inviting staff from all teams who are based at the Mile End office.

On the day of the celebration, the Mile End office was transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colours and traditions. Staff were greeted with beautiful hanging flower garlands and Diwali decorations that set the festive mood. There was a variety of authentic dishes to choose from including jeera rice, vegetable pakora, rogan josh, brinjal, kheer, and more.

Capturing the moment

View our short video from this occasion!

Thank you

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. We would also like to extend a huge thank you to Suman, Jay, Sumeet, Ashwin and the entire team to make this celebration a success.

Let’s continue the journey of championing moments like these, that honour our cultural traditions that bring us closer together.

What is one thing everyone can do to acknowledge Diwali?

A simple yet meaningful gesture is to wish Happy Diwali to your friends, colleagues, or acquaintances who celebrate the festival. It’s a small act, but it truly goes a long way in recognising and respecting the cultural and religious significance of the festival for others.

Seek your career. Find your purpose.

More than just a job, join us for a rewarding career

We love what we do, aren’t afraid to take action, put our hands up for challenges and celebrate the uniqueness of everyone in our community.

If this sounds like you, then visit our current opportunities to find a role that suits you.

Play, compete and thrive: ACH Group Sports Festival 2023

Kapara team photo from the sports festival, playing darts

ACH Group Sports Festival 2023

Drawing inspiration from the sportsmanship and passion for sports at the Masters Games, ACH Group’s residential social team collaborated with the residential health services team to create a month-long sports festival.

The residents competed in basketball, bocce, marathon, darts, shotput, and quoits.

The ACH Group teams included:

  • Colton Court: The CC’s
  • Healthia: Wheelie Wonders
  • Highercombe: The Hornets
  • Kapara: Kingpins
  • Milpara: Superstars
  • Perry Park: River Rockets
  • ViTA: The Achievers
  • West Park: Going for Gold
  • Yankalilla: Sea Dragons

Here are the highlights from the games…

Opening ceremony

Opening ceremonies were held across all nine residential care homes, inviting residents, staff, volunteers and students to participate.

Week 1

Week 1 of the ACH Group Sports Festival brought a lot of excitement and enjoyment to residential care homes.

The events featured basketball and bocce, and some impressive shots were captured. Everyone showed tremendous support, with cheers filling the air. 

As Luke, the ACH Group Health Services Team Leader, pointed out, “The focus of all these events is to promote inclusivity, but also, from a health perspective, we saw it as an opportunity to challenge the residents physically in a fun way.

In the photos, you will notice that some residents sat down while others were standing (reflecting inclusivity). However, for both groups, they were also working on dynamic sitting and standing balance. These enjoyable exercise activities will continue after the games have concluded.”

Many residents who weren’t originally planning to participate ended up giving it a try. As one of the residents remarked, “It’s just like working out in the gym, but it’s a lot of fun.”

Week 2

Team Kapara Kingpins laced up their sneakers, stretched their marathon muscles, and got on their marks to show everyone how it’s done!

We’ve seen a tremendous display of talent from participants. It was heart warming to see the enthusiasm of everyone and a bit of friendly competition.

Week 3 & Week 4

As the games drew to the end, it was fantastic to see so many more residents getting involved in the remaining events.

The feedback from residents and family has been very positive, with one family member sharing, “Love hearing about the events and how happy dad sounds when I ring him. Thank you all very much. Richard had a fantastic time and is very competetive.”

Closing ceremony

 We are immensely proud of what the residents achieved in the ACH Group Sports Festival held in October. Check out these awesome photos from the closing ceremony.

Scores have been calculated, and medals have been awarded at the closing ceremony, including trophies for overall winners.

Fun facts:

  • The average distance across homes for shotput was an astounding 4.5 meters! The overall individual shotput winner was Paul at Yankalilla with an amazing 8.9 meters.
  • Basketball was measured by the accuracy of shots, with Maxine at Yankalilla achieving 82% accuracy rate.
  • The marathon was a timed, 45-minute activity set up as a loop course where feasible. The focus was on inclusivity, ensuring there were resting and refreshment stations included throughout the course.
  • Across all homes, residents walked over 113,000 meters!

A special shoutout goes to the Colton Court CC’s team for adapting to the adjusted activities, considering the home layout.

And that’s a wrap!

Luke Mapunda, Health Services Team Leader, reflected on the ACH Group Sports Festival.

Here’s his hightlights:

  1. Seeing the residents come together for fun, to exercise and to participate in some different activities while supporting each other in a really positive way. There was friendly competition within and across homes, but the sense of community throughout the games was fantastic.
  2. Working across teams can be a challenge at times, but the way the social and health teams came together to organise the activities was great. This was then enhanced by how the rest of the staff (home managers, nurses, care staff, volunteers, maintenance) supported the activities.
  3. Finally, some of the results I found inspiring. To watch residents challenge themselves was awesome and it highlights that if you provide the right environment, older adults have the ability to do incredible things.
Social Manager Residential, Jane Garforth, reflected:

“I just wanted to take a moment to express my awe and gratitude for the incredible participation and competitive spirit we witnessed during the ACH Games and Show. It was truly heartwarming to see residents rise to the challenge, and our dedicated staff went above and beyond to ensure the success of these events. None of this would have been possible without the invaluable contribution of our amazing volunteers who stepped up in various capacities. Special thanks to the students who helped document and evaluate the events – your involvement was invaluable.

A huge shoutout to our colleagues from Allied Health for wholeheartedly embracing the idea and joining in on the fun. And to our residents, you all are the true stars! Your determination and grit were nothing short of inspirational. I believe many of you even surprised yourselves with your outstanding performances.

Thank you, each and every one of you, for making this event a memorable success. Let’s keep the positive energy and teamwork going! Olympics next year! “

Health Services Team Leader – Residential, Jordan Parpadella concluded:

“The overall feedback from residents and homes has been very positive. Some homes have even opted to continue with a couple activities trialled at the Sports Festival, now added to their regular social activity calendar.”

Good health and wellness is an easy choice

At ACH Group, our residential care services are dedicated to creating opportunities for older people to thrive, where they are valued, stimulated and connected, while still retaining control of their lives.

Learn more about the healthy ageing approach and residential care at ACH Group.

Getting organised for Christmas

Table with Christmas wrapping paper and notepad with writing on it saying 'get organised for Christmas'

Getting organised for the festive season

The festive season is upon us and there is a lot to consider – from card writing and mailing, list writing, gift wrapping, shopping for presents and posting gifts, putting up the Christmas tree and decorations, Christmas baking and Christmas events or entertaining – you name it, there is a lot to do!

Want to be ready for Christmas and the festive season? We can help!

If you are aged 65+, ACH Group can support you with tasks to help you feel organised to enjoy the festive season. Did you know that these services can be funded from your Home Care Package, through the Commonwealth Home Support Program or privately funded? Learn more about Help at Home and Christmas Support Services.

Did you know that a Support Worker can help with tasks around the home such as personal care, light cleaning or helping to prepare meals? Outside of the home Support Workers may accompany you on social outings, appointments, shopping or picking up medications.

If you feel overwhelmed or just need a bit of inspiration, here are some tips on how to get organised for the festive season…

Christmas planning made easy

Success is where preparation and opportunity meet, and Christmas is no different to any other celebration or event.

Make a ‘to-do’ list

Making a list will not only help you keep track of tasks in progress and those to be done, but the feeling of accomplishment when you can tick a task off the list as ‘done’ is very satisfying.

We created a print-friendly resource you can download and start planning today!

Download: Christmas to-do list and gift item list

Christmas shopping

Local is the best when it comes to Christmas shopping and there are plenty of Christmas markets and fairs being held across South Australia. From stocking fillers and original artwork to doggie bow ties, there is something for everyone.

See the list of Christmas markets with dates and times, including the all time favourite Bowden Christmas Gift Market and Gathered Christmas Market in Hahndorf.

Tip: Your support worker can organise a shopping trip and accompany you to visit markets or shops. 

Christmas fruit cake

Food and entertaining

For those looking to enjoy stress-free Christmas lunch or dinner, here’s a complete guide to Christmas Day dining in Adelaide.

If you love to cook and entertain with style, plan your menu and recipes in advance.

Tip: Try award-winning Beryl’s Christmas fruit cake recipe which also makes a beautiful present for friends or relatives!

Christmas carols scene with twinkle lights and open book with musical notes

Christmas lights, carols and concerts

For many families, it’s the Christmas experiences such as Adelaide’s National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant or the Magic Cave at David Jones that become cherished traditions for many generations. We found the top things to see and do around Adelaide this Christmas which can be added to your Christmas event planning.

Tip: This December, put your Santa hats on and join us for our new Christmas getaway in Hahndorf and Lobethal.

What are your Christmas traditions?

Whether you indulge in Christmas or not, this time of the year is a good opportunity to learn about different customs and traditions, and how different nationalities celebrate Christmas.

According to idCommunity, the top largest non-Australian cultural groups in South Australia are: English, Scottish, Irish, German, Italian, Chinese, Indian, and Greek.

Who sets a traditional table with loaves of ‘Christopsomo’ and whose main Christmas meal includes carp or goose? Learn about Christmas traditions and how Christmas is celebrated in different countries and cultures.