Look Good Feel Better: Where retirees make a difference in volunteering
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Senior Australians are increasingly spending their retirement years wisely volunteering, remaining active and applying skills developed over illustrious careers to support their local community.
Retiree Cathy, found herself bored after hanging up the white coat following a career in pharmacy and the beauty industry.
“At first, I didn’t know what to do with myself. I think when you retire you can either sit in the rocking chair reading books and watching TV for the rest of your life, or you can get out and do something that’s really meaningful. I’d wanted to volunteer earlier in my career but never had the time. Retirement gave me that, which led me to Look Good Feel Better,” said Cathy.
Look Good Feel Better is a national cancer-support program delivering free in-person and online workshops, helping people with any type of cancer manage the most common physical and psychological impacts of treatment.
The Look Good Feel Better program relies on skilled volunteers like Cathy to take participants through make-up and skin care routines, and headwear options to deal with hair-loss, skin changes and other side effects associated with cancer treatment.
“It’s so rewarding to see our participants walk out of the workshops with smiles on their faces, feeling really good about themselves, for probably the first time since their journey started. Having worked throughout my life, staying involved in the industry I love, in a way that gives something back to those who need it, keeps me going and helps me stay young.”
Carol Kavurma, General Manager of Look Good Feel Better acknowledged the value of skilled retirees such as Cathy.
“Retirees like Cathy are invaluable members of our volunteer base. We are incredibly grateful for their skills, knowledge and generosity, empowering participants to regain control, confidence, and a sense of self during a time which can be devastating to a person’s self esteem.”
Whilst the Look Good Feel Better program has supported 190,000 Australian women, men, and young adults since 1990, the organisation receives no government funding despite ongoing engagement and relies on the generosity of corporate and community sponsors.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
