Celebrating Our Volunteers: National Volunteer Week 

We’re proud to highlight Peter Taylor, who has been volunteering with CCV for just over 18 months. In that time, he has made a real impact to the local community, helping allocate immediate funding and support to those who are experiencing hardship.  

Peter has a love for numbers, with a background of more than 20 years in banking and finance. As part of our Emergency Relief Team, Peter gives his time to individuals and families to provide reassurance, advice and support.  

When asked what keeps him motivated to volunteer, he said, “I think we’ve all got a responsibility in society to help each other. I don’t do it to wear a badge or for recognition. I’m very fortunate to have had a successful life, and it’s just part of my responsibility to help”.  

Peter says one of the most memorable moments was being able to give additional vouchers to families at Christmas time. 

He said, “I remember we were able to allocate some additional funds to families. It was coming up to Christmas time and January, the start of a new school year and all of that, and it was great being able to give these families vouchers towards Kmart or Coles to help take the pressure off. You could tell; there’s no doubt it was life-changing.”  

Describing his volunteering experience in one word, Peter shares, “happiness”. 

Outside of volunteering, Peter enjoys walking and spending time outdoors, and brings this positivity and enthusiasm to every shift.  

Thank you Peter, for the difference you make. 

For the past three years, Rebecca Watson has been a dedicated volunteer at Settle Well Homework Club at Northern Bay College.

Each week, she supports secondary school students—mainly in Years 9 and 10—with their humanities studies, helping to break down tricky concepts, build their confidence, and nurture their love of learning. 

Although she doesn’t come from a teaching background, Rebecca’s passion for working with young people shines through.

“It’s as much about encouragement and rapport as it is about subject knowledge,” she says. Whether it’s clarifying an assignment question or celebrating a student’s growth, she’s there to reassure them that they’re capable and valued. 

What inspires her most is watching students blossom over time.

“Some of the girls I worked with in Year 9 still come to see me in Year 11. Their confidence has grown so much—it’s beautiful to witness.” Rebecca also loves the informal conversations about dreams and future careers, often swapping stories and advice with students in moments of shared reflection. 

For Rebecca, the impact of the program goes beyond academics. “It gives the kids a safe, welcoming place to learn and connect. They want to be there—and that says everything.” 

When asked to sum up her experience in one word, she doesn’t hesitate, “Fantastic.” 

Thank you, Rebecca, for your warmth, dedication and unwavering support. Your commitment is making a real difference! 

After retiring from the public service and overcoming his own health challenges, Peter Sansom felt a deep calling to give back.

In early 2023, he discovered CCV and was drawn to the organisation’s values, particularly its client-centred approach to emergency relief. “The philosophy just aligned perfectly with mine,” he says.

Peter connects with around 20 clients each week – listening to their stories, offering support, and helping them access critical assistance.

What he values most is the opportunity to focus entirely on each person. “It’s not just about food vouchers,” he explains. “It’s about hearing someone, building them up, and helping however I can in that moment.” 

The impact is often immediate and emotional. Whether it’s helping someone navigate a utility grant, or simply recognising a parent for doing their best, Peter finds meaning in the small, sincere moments. “I once told a woman she was doing a great job, and she stopped and said, ‘No one’s ever said that to me before.’ That’s the kind of moment that stays with you.” 

Through thousands of conversations, Peter has seen firsthand the deep challenges many clients face – from extreme domestic violence to profound social isolation.

And yet, he remains motivated by the knowledge that a compassionate voice and practical support can make all the difference. 

For Peter, volunteering isn’t just something he does – “it’s a blessing”, the one word he says best captures his experience.

Thank you, Peter, for bringing empathy, insight, and heart to every call. Your ability to truly listen—and to lift someone’s spirit with a few kind words—embodies what CCV stands for.