Search
Regions
Support Us
Donate
1300 232 564
What is RSL Life Care? Find out
3 mins read 5 December 2024“My name is Jan McGuire, and I’ve been part of the RSL ANZAC Village community in Narrabeen for over 19 years. I moved here in December 2005 and I’ve been volunteering at the village’s Op Shop for more than 18 years now.
Why did I become a volunteer? Well, it all started with my brother. He was involved with the Op Shop, and as soon as I arrived, he said, “You have to come and work with me.” So I did, and I’ve been here ever since.
Over the years, I’ve seen quite a few changes. The shop has grown in so many ways. We receive so many donations, boosting our sales & expanding the business. What I love most about volunteering here is being able to help people. Sometimes customers come in looking for something special, like an outfit for an important occasion, and being able to assist them is so rewarding. I also enjoy meeting new people, whether they’re village residents or visitors, and getting to know their stories.
The Op Shop is truly a team effort. We have over 30 volunteers. Some of our volunteers are remarkable – like Helen Clark, who is 97 years old and still helps every Thursday. I’m here once a week, but I’m always available if needed.
We sell a wide range of items, from men’s and women’s clothing to household goods, kitchenware, and even furniture. Many donations come from families who’ve lost loved ones, and it’s heartening to know that all the money raised goes back into the village through the Montgomery Committee. This committee supports our residential care homes by funding various requests, from equipment to enhancements & is expanding our businessthat improve residents’ lives. It feels great to know our efforts are making a real difference right here in our community.
Before moving to the village, I spent over 40 years working in retail, mostly in clothing and accessories, so running the shop felt like a natural fit for me. But it’s more than just work – it’s also about the people. We’ve built such a warm, welcoming environment. Customers are kind enough to bring us cakes or biscuits, and we often enjoy morning tea together. There’s a lot of fun mixed in with the work, which makes every day enjoyable.
I was honoured to receive the Milne Wood Award, though I must admit it was quite a surprise. There were other nominees who had done great work, and I didn’t expect to win.
Beyond the Op Shop, I stay busy helping around the village. I was recently president of the Cutler Village Committee and remain an active member. The committee organises activities to keep residents engaged, like happy hour every Friday, monthly BBQs, Christmas dinners, and bingo games. I also help with dinners for women living alone – everyone brings a dish, and we share a meal together every second month.
I’m turning 90 on St. Patrick’s Day next year, and I have no plans of slowing down. Volunteering has given me purpose and joy. To anyone considering it, my advice is this: You can choose to sit back and do nothing, or you can get involved. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, learn new things, and feel the satisfaction of helping others. It truly gives you a sense of accomplishment – and, most importantly, a lot of happiness.”
Continue Reading
Discover our Services
Home Care
Having a friendly face drop by and lend a hand at home can make a big difference. From housekeeping to post-hospital care, we're here to help.
Retirement Living
Enjoy life in one of our Retirement Villages, where maintenance is a thing of the past and secure, easy living is your everyday.
Residential Care
You'll feel right at home joining our community of warm and welcoming peers and team members. Live your best life, with care tailored to your needs.
Veteran Services
Our dedicated Veteran Services team help Australian veterans and their families by providing veteran-centric support and wellbeing programs.
Download a brochure
We'll never share your email address and you can opt out at any time, we promise
Career Application Single
Ready to make a decision
but not sure where to start?
We can help.
-
27 Retirement Living Villages across NSW & ACT
-
29 Residential Care homes across NSW & ACT
-
22 Home Care service locations across NSW, ACT & QLD
-
6 Dedicated Veteran & Family Hubs, offering free support for veterans
"*" indicates required fields
Ready to make a decision
but not sure where to start?
We can help.
-
27 Retirement Living Villages across NSW & ACT
-
29 Residential Care homes across NSW & ACT
-
22 Home Care service locations across NSW, ACT & QLD
-
6 Dedicated Veteran & Family Hubs, offering free support for veterans
Contact us today
Our friendly and caring team are ready to help you make a confident decision, and live your best life!