Community connection keeps Virginia going

Published

March 6, 2020

Virginia (pictured above with Paul Linossier and Bronwyn Pike) has been the heart and soul of our Sale Op Shop for 33 years and her service was recently recognised at our Melbourne Annual Public Meeting.

“I started volunteering in the shop a week after it opened,” Virginia says. “My husband was working away at the time and I had three young children, so it was a good way for me to get out of the house and socialise with others.

“My children and grandchildren have all grown up around the Op Shop – it’s part of my life.

“It’s been a wonderful journey that has kept me connected to my community.”

Her fellow volunteers helped Virginia through the tragedy of losing her daughter after a long battle with cancer last year.

“Everyone has been so kind, caring and understanding,” Virginia says. “I don’t know what I would have done without them. They were so supportive.”

The knowledge that funds raised through the shop go back into the local community and the joy of helping people find a bargain keep Virginia motivated.

Funds raised from the Sale Op Shop directly support our programs and services across Gippsland.

“I can’t believe it has been 33 years. It has gone by in the blink
of an eye.”

Become a volunteer
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer at your local Op Shop or any Uniting service, please send through an enquiry.

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