Category: Health
Recipient: Sister Rita Reilly
Background
Sister Rita Reilly has been involved with disadvantaged groups for many years through her involvement with Centacare. She has the rare ability to empathise with the people she serves and works hard to understand their individual needs. This nomination addresses Sister Rita's volunteer activities at the Dorothy Sales Cottages since 2004.
Scope of Work
Sister Rita visits the residents at Dorothy Sales Cottage, a 24 hour community home for eight people with acquired brain injuries. The victims of a traumatic accident or similar, the residents require around the clock care and support. Sister Rita visits the cottages three to four times per week, playing games, reading, talking with and listening to those who are able to verbally communicate. She listens with her heart to those who cannot.
She works individually and at group level, allowing one-on-one time for the resident's individual interests to be discussed and explored. Sister Rita also participates in group activities, such as facilitating games to assist with resident's motor and social skills. Importantly, she brings news of events and sports to residents who would otherwise be partly cut-off from such information. Sister Rita has established excellent relationships with the staff at the cottages and her contribution has become an important part of the centre's work.
Impact on the Community
Sister Rita's volunteer work at the cottages supports individuals who are the victims of terrible trauma, often in the prime of their lives. In addition to the help she provides to the residents, her experiences enable her to educate the wider community on the issue of acquired brain injuries and to provide advice to other volunteers.
Time Dedicated
Sister Rita visits the cottages three to four times per week for approximately one to two hours at a time. She also attends special events such as birthday parties and celebrations.