FDS Insight Newsletter Oct-Dec 2020

9 FDS volunteers respond to Anna’s volunteer testimonial video Brendan : What a tremendous opportunity to learn and improve my skills and experience as a therapeutic practitioner. I have thoroughly enjoyed the mentoring and expert support provided by this organisation (in particular James – if you ever have the pleasure to speak with him). But ALL STAFF have been exceptional and supportive. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND engaging with this organisation to challenge yourself. You’ll gain insight and understanding into one of the biggest challenges facing our community. The skills I’ve acquired through this work have absolutely complemented my other occupations. In my opinion, the training is world class. Do yourself a favour. Research more about it. Liz : I have been a volunteer for many years now. It is a very rewarding experience to sit with the family members, to offer support and a listening ear. FDS is a wonderful organisation that reaches out to families from all over Australia. Wendy: I find the families supporting loved ones who are dependent on alcohol and other drugs absolutely awe inspiring in their strength and resilience. It’s an honour to hear their stories, acknowledge their feelings and assist them to work through their options. Anne: A great organisation doing wonderful work supporting families. A privilege being a volunteer. Inny: I find working as a volunteer for this excellent organisation to be extremely rewarding. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about volunteering to do so. The FDS team is so friendly and supportive and we’d love to have you onboard! Gary: This is my third year as an FDS volunteer. I have found it a simple commitment to maintain and feel that I have gained experience in listening and communicating with people in need. I agree with other comments regarding support and appreciation provided by the FDS team and feel that this support has enhanced my experience of this important role. Cherrie: I consider the time I spent as a volunteer to have been life changing. Tony and Sandra and the team are inspiring … ♥ Lindsay: I have worked as a volunteer for FDS for just over a year and have found it a very enriching time, that has helped me gain experience in just listening to people and truly recognising that they are the experts in their own lives. I am regularly in complete awe of the families and friends who ring up and speak to me. It’s very rewarding to be a sounding board for people who are trying to do the best for themselves and their loved ones, generally under very difficult