National Volunteer Week, held 19 – 25 May, is a time to acknowledge the generous contributions of volunteers across the country. At John Paul College, we are proud to recognise two staff members who give their time and energy to make a difference beyond the classroom.
Jaqui O’Leary has been a dedicated volunteer with 3198 Seaford BeachPatrol since 2018, leading regular beach clean-ups and driving community initiatives. Her project Nurdle Anymore, which tackles microplastic pollution, was a finalist in the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns and Cities Awards in 2023. Jaqui’s leadership and impact have also been recognised through the Frankston City Council Volunteering Award for Initiative (2023) and the Volunteering Frankston Leadership Award (2024). She continues to encourage others to get involved through events like Neighbour Day, which promotes simple acts of connection in local communities.
The nurdle pollution on Seaford Beach is a microcosm of a global crisis. While we acknowledge the widespread nature of this issue, we believe that taking action at the local level is important.
Kaitlyn Bell has contributed her time and care through The Lost Dogs’ Home, fostering rescue animals and helping them transition to loving homes. Over the past six months, she has supported two dogs – Ralphy, an older Boxer, and Harry, a young Labrador – through their recovery journeys. Kaitlyn describes fostering as an incredibly rewarding experience and encourages others to consider how they can support animals in need.
Volunteering with the Lost Dogs Home has really enriched my life and I love being a part of the fostering community. I would encourage anyone interested in fostering to find out more.
To Jaqui, Kaitlyn and all those in our community who volunteer: thank you. Your generosity and compassion have a lasting impact, not only in the lives you touch but in the spirit you bring to our College community.