Meet Cláudia

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My name is Cláudia. When most people first see me, they assume I am from Asia. My origin is Japanese, however I have resided in Brazil for many years. My mother tongue is Portuguese. I am a volunteer of the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) with MCCSA.

Since the age of six, I have watched my parents and grandparents actively engage with and support the large Japanese community in my city. They have helped organise major events and even assisted other communities when needed. Over the years, my family taught me the value of supporting both our own community and individuals in need. As a result, volunteering has become an important part of my lifestyle.

I learned about MCCSA through my friend Debora, who used to volunteer here. She told me they were looking for someone who could speak Portuguese to visit a resident in an aged care facility. Debora couldn’t help this year, so she suggested I give it a try. It has been a delight for me to support this resident; her way of speaking reminds me so much of my mother.

Volunteering with MCCSA has reminded me of my ideals and what I believe is my purpose ‘on this Earth’. It has helped me learn how important it is to share my love and support others.

MCCSA always has someone to help us with anything we need. I am learning many valuable skills by attending their educational workshops on various topics. These workshops help me enhance both my volunteer work and my professional life.

For me, the most important aspect of volunteering with MCCSA is how the staff regard us so highly and how glad they are to have us on their team and within their community. They are always there for us and will do whatever they can to help. It doesn’t matter to them if English isn’t our first language; we will still have excellent communication with each other.

The benefits that I have found through volunteering with MCCSA:

• A positive effect on the world around me. This includes the opportunity to make a meaningful difference and leave a lasting legacy by assisting those in need, supporting environmental conservation efforts, and campaigning for social justice.
• A meaningful way to make a difference in the world, giving my life more meaning and fulfillment
• The opportunity to learn new skills, gain experience and widen my perspective by interacting with a variety of individuals and situations
• The development of new relationships, strengthened social support, and improved overall well-being
• Connection to others that help with stress, anxiety, and sadness
• Opportunities for physical activity, such as in indoor and outdoor parks, or while helping with community events
• Increased empathy for people experiencing hardships, as well as greater compassion, understanding and acceptance of others
• Enhanced professional skills and career opportunities through relevant experience, broader networks, and demonstrated commitment to social responsibility in the workplace