A new award for Yvonne
Yvonne Rosengarten has won “Outstanding Individual Achievement” in the Primary Care category at the 2013 Victorian Minister for Health Volunteer Awards.
David Davids and Yvonne Rosengarten
The event was held recently during National Volunteer Week and Jewish Care is extremely proud of her achievement.
The award was presented by the Minister for Health Mr David Davis MP at a special ceremony celebrating the commitment, dedication and achievements of all volunteers in Victorian healthcare and, in particular, those nominated in the 2013 Awards.
Yvonne Rosengarten has been a volunteer for Jewish Care and its predecessors for over 60 years. Inspired by her father’s volunteer work, she started her journey of giving as a dedicated volunteer of the Frances Barkman House for Jewish Orphans, run by the Australian Jewish Welfare Society in 1950s.
Over the years, Yvonne opened her heart to numerous post-war child refugees, foster care recipients and aged care residents. For her entire life she has selflessly given her time and love to those in need in the community.
“Winning the award is a great honour but I never volunteered for myself,” Yvonne said, “I always did it for the benefit of others, especially worthy causes like the Jewish Welfare Society and now Jewish Care.”
Today at the age of 90, Yvonne spends time each week volunteering at Gary Smorgon House in Caulfield as a friendly companion to lonely residents. Although Yvonne visits all residents, she pays special attention to isolated dementia clients. This is extremely challenging especially as the individuals she visits are often her peers. Yvonne sits with these residents, entertains them with stories and news and listens to what they have to say. She provides for them a connection with the outside world where possible and acts as a passionate advocate for their needs.
Mary Scott, Jewish Care General Manager of People & Culture said, “Yvonne serves as an example to her family and those around her and inspires them to participate in the same way. Yvonne exemplifies respect for others, charity, family and kindness and serves as an example for generations to come. This award is worthy recognition of her lifetime of volunteering.”
Earlier this year Mrs Rosengarten was also awarded Jewish Care’s 2013 Volunteer of the Year.
