It’s always great to catch up with the residents at the Garden Village. This month we chat with Cheryl Pearson to thank her for her time as Auxiliary President and find out more about what’s happening at the Op Shop.
Cheryl is the coordinator of Garden Village Auxiliary Op Shop, and volunteers alongside many enthusiastic volunteer helpers. The Auxiliary Op Shop is once again hosting a Garage and Craft Sale on 22 October 2022. Cheryl has been involved with Garden Village and an Auxiliary member for the past 38 years and in 2018 moved from her home at Lighthouse Beach to the new Cascades Apartments with her husband Peter.
Over the years the Auxiliary has raised thousands of dollars to improve the lives of people living in Garden Village, especially for those in care.
“To me the Auxiliary is the heart of the village. Members are generous with their time and the committee works tirelessly to support village life.” said Cheryl.
The future of fundraising at Garden Village
Sadly many events were cancelled due to COVID and the Auxiliary is looking forward to creating a new era of events and fundraising projects. Cheryl is keen for a number of projects to come to fruition to continue supporting the Garden Village Community.
“Founder Keith Westerweller had a wonderful vision for Garden Village and in 2019 we celebrated our 40 year anniversary said Cheryl. Currently, there are seventeen op shop volunteers and nearly 100 Auxiliary members as well as the GV Craft Group and Men’s Shed. Volunteers from outside the village are always welcome to get involved.”
Garden Village shares a thank you message from Craig Wearne CEO
“On behalf of Garden Village we thank Cheryl for her ongoing commitment, care and enthusiasm for the community at Garden Village over many many years. Individuals like Cheryl are instrumental in creating a caring, inclusive and enjoyable place for all residents to live their best life,” said Craig Wearne CEO.“We encourage new members to get involved with the wonderful Auxiliary and it’s Committee and support the broader Garden Village community,” added Craig.
Why volunteer?
The Auxiliary is keenly seeking new volunteers who are welcome to get involved at any time. Benefits of volunteering include:
- Gives you a sense of purpose and keeps you active
- Higher levels of health and wellbeing
- It’s fun to be social and give back to the community
- Your experiences and ideas are valued to shape the future of Garden Village
- Boosts social activities and connection
- Help maintain or improve memory and thinking skills
The Auxiliary Op Shop Opening Times
The Auxiliary Op Shop is open every Wednesday and Thursday morning and the second Saturday of each month from 9am to 12pm Wednesday and Thursday. It is a treasure trove of bric a brac, craft, clothing, glassware, small pieces of furniture and accessories.
Please do say ‘hello’ to Cheryl and the volunteers and support The Auxiliary Op Shop and fundraising initiatives like the upcoming Garage and Craft Sale this October.
Register your interest in volunteering.