Marilyn began volunteering with us thirty years ago. She saw an ad in the local paper to help run the new gift shop at Kingston Centre, and she thought: “That’s something I can do to help my community.”
Marilyn helped to run and stock the shop, which was very popular with employees and visitors alike.
A couple of years later, Dalene began volunteering alongside Marilyn at the gift shop, and the pair have become very close friends. Dalene also knits teddy bears that are given out at Casey’s Emergency Department.
(Marilyn and Dalene)
Ten years ago, Delcie joined Dalene and Marilyn in helping to run the gift shop, and now all three are close friends. Even during the pandemic, when the restrictions meant they couldn’t run the shop, the three ladies kept in touch with each other.
(Dalene, Declie and Marilyn)
This story of friendship forged through thirty years of volunteering speaks to the extraordinary contribution our volunteers make to our health service, and how important they are in building our community.
The ladies have treasured being part of the fabric of the Kingston Centre community and putting a smile on the faces of their customers. Over the years, Marilyn estimates the team has raised over a hundred thousand dollars for Kingston Centre.
“We all helped one another,” says Marilyn. “Del and Dalene and I are going to remain lifelong friends. I also want to acknowledge all the other volunteers who have helped in the gift shop over the years.”
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. The gift shop at Kingston Centre is closing and will have two final sales. Make sure you come down and buy something to say thank you to Marilyn, Delcie and Dalene.
Final sales at the Kingston Centre Gift Shop
- Wednesday 1st June 10.00am – 2.00pm
- Tuesday 7th June 10.00am – 2.00pm