Linda Deutsch interviewed for Wentworth Courier

On page 17. of the current issue of the Wentworth Courier you will discover an inspiring interview with JNC volunteer, Linda Deutsch. For over two years Linda has been contributing her time and skills as an English Conversation Volunteer at our centre in Bondi Junction. Linda Deutsch shares her personal volunteering story with the Wentworth Courier and inspires all! 

Having first-hand experience from her European parents settling in Australia post WWII to establish a new life, Linda was drawn to working with migrants and supporting them to achieve their dream of living in Australia. During her consultancy years, Linda noticed how crucial it was for those emigrating to have a good level of English, and not just for migration purposes.

Being able to converse comfortably, she observed, was an essential bridge to connecting migrants to their new communities.

Linda’s reported that one of the notable benefits for participants’ is increased cross-generational interaction. As the participants gain confidence in speaking English, many report better communication and bonding with their children and grandchildren who often learn English growing up. Similarly, the participants are able to learn more about Australia, our history, our customs – discussions have included the history of Anzac Day, what the Melbourne Cup is and what the word “bloke” means! Yet Linda is quick to point out that equally, she receives a weekly cultural education from the participants and learns from their diverse backgrounds. Linda describes the group as warm and very dedicated and shares that they have forged fond connections.

As Australia finishes celebrating National Volunteer Week 2016 and acknowledges the valuable contributions of over 6 million volunteers across the country, we discover more personally, the extent to which a volunteer role can impact on one’s life and outlook.

Linda’s shares all that she receives from the volunteer experience in her interview for the Wentworth Courier. It is a nice reminder that volunteer roles are meaningful and all win from the experience.

If you would like to find out more about volunteer roles available at The JNC or with the 50 local organisations we work with through VAST Volunteer recruitment and referral services be sure to pop into Come Meet Your Neighbourhood this Wednesday.