“I can’t help feeling inspired when I hear their stories, the fact that they wish to be at Pegasus not because they have to but because they want to.”
Volunteers bring so much more to an organisation than just an extra pair of hands; they bring a sense of atmosphere not always felt in other workplaces. This has not been felt as much as it has now. With current lock downs all around the country, organisations such as Pegasus have noticed the void from not having volunteers onsite.
Here at Pegasus we rely on volunteers in almost every area, from morning and afternoon feeds, rugging on those cold winter nights, class activities, coaching and maintaining our popular sensory garden; we have no shortage of jobs on a daily basis. Pegasus was built on volunteering by those happy to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand.
Every day I have the opportunity to meet and talk with our volunteers, the stories of why they chose Pegasus, the stories of where they have come from. High flying public servants, doctors and business people looking for something to give back to the community while helping them to escape, to retirees looking for ways to help while staying active and involved in the community; all the wile sharing skills and knowledge they have from a lifetime of experiences.
I can’t help but feel inspired when I hear their stories, the fact that they wish to be at Pegasus, not because they have to but because they want to. This drove me to step back and review my time at Pegasus. Although I am fortunate to have a paying job at a place I dearly love, I wanted to experience what our volunteers experience. I now have a weekly spot cleaning paddocks, feeding and grooming along with helping in classes as required. My only rule is we don’t talk business. I am not the General Manager at this time, I am another one of their team. I report to the Coach, I listen and learn from those who are more experiences and I do my part. This has not only helped me to share their experience but has also strengthened the importance of my role ensuring Pegasus is there for our community.
If it were not for our volunteers, Pegasus and RDA would not exist. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank our amazing volunteers here at Pegasus and through all of RDA.