Volunteer story Barry Mills – Daily Connections worth their weight in gold

For Barry, 74, from Point Cook, it was a seamless transition from his career as a bus tour operator to a volunteer at LINK Community and Transport.

As a husband, dad of two and grandpa of six, Barry’s life is filled with a bounty of love and support.

And he does not take that for granted.

That is why his role as a driver at LINK comes with a responsibility and a connection that is so much more than driving a client from A to B.

So much more than transport

“Before I retired, I drove coaches for many years, including my own for the last few; mainly with seniors groups, so I found it easy to slip back into chatting with everyone.

“I met a person where I lived who was a LINK volunteer and it intrigued me to join.  And as they say, the rest is history!”

“I wasn’t really sure what it would be like to be a volunteer but it didn’t take long at all to dive into the role and be able to assist with clients who needed to go to the doctors, hospital or their social outing.

“I have dipped my toe as a volunteer by taking a veteran to the ANZAC Day parade which is already such a great joy for me.  Now, as a volunteer I drive once a week. I find the greatest of joys in connecting with clients through conversations and storytelling.  And boy, do they have some stories to tell!”

Making a difference one km at a time

“There is really no such thing as a typical day, as it could one or two jobs or many. I have my regular clients who are always a joy, and meeting new faces is such a privilege as well.

“I come home after a day of volunteering knowing that I may have impacted someone’s life, even for five minutes, and that for me, is very fulfilling.

“If you are thinking about volunteering in any capacity, you need to have the time, patience and have an ability to get along with everyone.

“Its nice to be able to give people a hand when they need it.  Who knows, it could be me or someone I love who may need help one day.

Volunteer story Barry Mills – Daily Connections worth their weight in gold For Barry, 74, from Point Cook, it was a seamless transition from his career as a bus tour operator to a volunteer at LINK Community and Transport. As a husband, dad of two and grandpa of six, Barry’s life is filled with a […]