As we mark National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to shine a light on the incredible individuals, and animals, who give their time across our hospitals. Among them is retired school teacher Richard Johnson and his beloved border collie, Rocco.
After 45 years teaching in primary and intermediate schools around Aotearoa, Richard was gifted Rocco, then a 12 week old puppy, when he retired. Looking for a way to stay active and involved in the community, Richard connected with Canine Friends, “The rest,” he says, “is history.”
For nearly two years now, Richard and Rocco have been regular visitors at Kenepuru Hospital. “I think volunteering with Rocco really brightens the day for patients who might be going through something tough or feeling a bit isolated,” says Richard. “People often share stories about their own pets. It’s a great way to help them feel at ease and focus on something positive.”
Earlier this year, when a call went out for musical volunteers, Richard didn’t miss a beat. A seasoned performer at open mic nights and local venues, he now returns to Kenepuru every Sunday morning as one half of “R&R” (Rest and Recreation) – while Richard strums out classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, Rocco lounges nearby, stealing the spotlight with his effortless charm and zero vocal effort.
“The response is really heart-warming,” says Richard. “Some of the staff tell me it’s the highlight of their week. And it’s fun for me too, doing something I love while lifting others’ spirits.”
Richard describes one particular volunteer experience that has stayed with him. After performing for a Year 7/8 class at Papakowhai School, Richard and Rocco visited the grandfather of one of the students, who was a patient at Kenepuru. “Sadly, the gentleman passed away,” Richard recalls. “But I later heard that one of the last conversations he had with his grandson was about both of them having met a tan and white border collie named Rocco. It became a special memory they shared. The boy even wrote about it in a story about his granddad. That meant a lot to me.”
For Richard, volunteering is about connection, purpose and joy. “It’s given me a great reason to get out, meet people and share a bit of happiness,” he says. “If you’re thinking of volunteering – do it. If you’re a good listener, enjoy talking to people and want to give back to your community, there’s something for everyone.”
Amanda Taii, Volunteer Manager at Kenepuru Hospital, says volunteers like Richard and Rocco play a vital role in creating a caring and connected environment. “Our volunteers bring ‘community’ into our hospital. Their presence completes the wrap around service the hospital provides, as they give up their own time to care for others. It’s truly humbling to be part of a team working together to improve outcomes for our local hospitals through volunteering. Thank you to every one of you, past and present, for sharing your time with us!”
If you’d like to Volunteer with us we’d love to hear from you