National Volunteer Week is a special celebration each year that recognises the contributions of millions of Australians who donate their time and skills to help others.
Over the Foundation’s 40 years, so many things have only been possible because of the thousands of people who’ve given their time and talents without expecting anything in return.
In this blog, we will introduce you to a very small number of them who are currently volunteering and helping us to make a meaningful difference.
‘Your year to volunteer’
The theme for National Volunteer Week in 2026 is ‘Your year to volunteer’.
This week, Volunteering Australia is inviting everyone to try their hand at volunteering to find out how they can create connection, purpose and stronger communities – something we see every day.
Incredible people who donate their time through the Foundation
Leigh Whitton, Board Member and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation
Leigh began volunteering for The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation’s board in 2025.
Leigh worked as a Chief Financial Officer for over 25 years and currently chairs the Foundation’s Finance and Audit Risk (FAR) Committee, which provides oversight of financial governance, financial reporting, audit and risk.
- Why did you take on the volunteer role on the board?
I was approached by a close friend to succeed him on the board after years of service. He told me how rewarding and satisfying the experience was, and he was so right. Although I have no medical background, I was confident I could apply my financial expertise and desire to help people and contribute.
- How does volunteering make you feel?
The Foundation supports an incredible group of researchers and volunteers dedicated to saving and enriching the lives of others. The board works to ensure those efforts can continue and grow, and we get enormous satisfaction in playing our part in doing good.
- Would you recommend volunteering to others?
I would definitely recommend volunteering to others. It is a great way to stay busy, share experiences with like-minded people, and gain real satisfaction and pride.
Hospital Volunteers
Since 2013, The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation has managed and facilitated the much-loved volunteer program. At present, there are around 120 Charlie’s Angels Volunteers across The Prince Charles Hospital, the Chermside BreastScreen Clinic and Kallangur Satellite Health Centre. These volunteers, sponsored by Kedron-Wavell, collectively provide around 500 hours of support each week.
In 2022, The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation was also entrusted with the management and facilitation of the Caboolture Hospital volunteer program. In that short time, it has grown from 12 people to more than 50. Those volunteers now contribute over 300 volunteering hours each week across the hospital.
Roger, Charlie’s Angel, The Prince Charles Hospital
- What is your volunteer role?
I work in the dementia research unit. My role is to look after the partner/carer while the patient meets with a staff member – tea/coffee and a chat. I then do the same with the patient while their partner/carer meets with a staff member. I also organise lunch, often a toasted sandwich, for patients and their partners/carers who attend for longer appointments. Then I clean up and head home.
- Why did you start volunteering?
I live next door to the hospital, overlooking one of the car parks. For years, I’ve seen the staff coming and going. They always looked like a happy lot.
When I was at the hospital for an appointment, I mentioned to a staff member that they do a good job, and a doctor said that if I wanted to help, I could become a Charlie’s Angel. I applied to join Charlie’s Angels and was allocated to the dementia research unit. As my mother had dementia, I felt very fortunate to receive a role in that unit.
- Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Volunteering is very rewarding, and I’d recommend it to anyone.
From a personal point of view, it’s giving something back for what I’ve received from the hospital. And it’s quite an interesting role because it involves meeting interesting people. I feel like I’m doing my little bit.
The staff appreciate us. They always say ‘hello’ and tell us over and over again that we’re appreciated. It’s not why we do it, of course, but it’s nice to know that we’re appreciated.
Gay, Charlie’s Angel, Kallangur Satellite Health Centre
- What is your volunteer role?
The role changes every week. Overall, I see my role as providing comfort to people, especially in the renal unit, by helping with morning tea and chatting with patients. I also visit the dentist’s waiting room quite a bit. Patients are often anxious about going to the dentist, so I sit and listen to them talk. They often comment that it’s nice to have someone to talk to and that talking has helped pass the time.
- Why did you start volunteering?
After going through cancer treatment, I wanted to give back, particularly to the public health system. As a volunteer in the renal unit, I empathise with and can relate strongly to the patients being treated for kidney-related conditions.
- Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Absolutely. I love my Monday mornings at Kallangur. It’s great to give back, particularly as you age. And I get so much out of it. On days when I have a lot going on, I put everything aside and focus on helping at Kallangur. It could be any of us at the health centre going through a difficult time. Staff and patients are very grateful to have us and are quick to say, ‘thank you’.
Leone, Caboolture Hospital Volunteer
- What is your volunteer role?
My primary role is to provide assistance to members of the public entering the hospital. They could be coming in to attend a specialist appointment, visit family or friends, or need medical assistance, and it’s my job to help them navigate their way. I also handle basic administrative work for whichever department needs it. The work consists of simple tasks, but they are important and often time-consuming duties.
- Why did you start volunteering?
I chose to volunteer at the hospital mainly because of its location, being close to where I live. I also factored in that, throughout my working life, I have been involved in administrative duties, including 21 years in retail; as such, I considered the hospital an ideal environment for volunteering.
- Would you recommend volunteering to others?
I definitely would recommend volunteering. Volunteering isn’t only about being involved with and giving to the community; it is also a way to stay active and to socialise. It is good for the mind, body and soul.
Erin, Event Volunteer, Tour de Brisbane
- What was your role at this year’s Tour de Brisbane?
At this year’s Tour de Brisbane, I volunteered as a Support Officer in the Common Good area. My duties included greeting riders and visitors, answering questions, selling merchandise, and collecting donations to support the cause. I also helped with setting up the area before the event started and packing everything down at the end of the day. It was a busy but rewarding role, and I enjoyed being part of such a positive and supportive atmosphere throughout the event.
- Why did you volunteer for the event?
I don’t have a personal connection to the hospital or cause, but I wanted to volunteer because I know the event supports meaningful and important community causes. I believe even small contributions can help make a difference in people’s lives, and I wanted to be part of something that brings people together for a good purpose. Seeing the community support and positive energy during the event made the experience very meaningful for me.
- How does volunteering make you feel?
Volunteering makes me feel that my time is being spent in a meaningful and positive way. I enjoy meeting other volunteers, hearing their stories and experiences, and working together towards a shared purpose. It also gives me a sense of belonging and connection to the community. Even simple tasks can have a real impact, and that feeling is very rewarding.
- What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering?
I would say that even giving a small amount of your time can make a big difference in someone’s life. Volunteering is not only about helping others — but it’s also a chance to meet new people, learn new experiences, and feel connected to your community. The experience can be very rewarding, and you may be surprised by how meaningful and enjoyable it is.
Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers
We cannot thank our volunteers enough for the incredible impact they help us to achieve every single day!
If volunteering is on your to-do list, please reach out to us at events@tpchfoundation.org.au or sign up for our email list to learn about upcoming volunteering opportunities.
