Christine and Angie are sisters who discovered something special through volunteering — peace, purpose and a wonderful circle of friends.
Four years ago, Angie heard about volunteering through Peggy, a long-time work friend from last century. One day Peggy mentioned her joy in volunteering at Church 4 Life warehouse and encouraged Angie to come along and see what it was like. Angie decided to give it a try.
What she found was far more than she expected. The welcoming atmosphere, the sense of teamwork and the shared desire to help others made her feel instantly at home. She soon realised this was a place where people cared deeply about each other and about the community.
Angie especially values the calm she experiences when she arrives. “I feel peace when I come here. I calm down and relax. I get so involved in my work. It’s a relief some days to get away from the chaos at home, especially when my (now deceased) husband was suffering from dementia. I really needed the peace, the work and the friends to help me take care of myself so I could care for him.”
For Angie, volunteering has become a place where she can breathe, slow down and feel supported. The simple routines of helping, sorting and working alongside others bring a sense of stability that makes a real difference in her week.
After a time, Angie invited her sister Christine to come along too.
Christine quickly discovered the same sense of belonging. The simple act of helping — sorting donations, chatting with other volunteers and working together toward a common purpose — brought a quiet joy to their days. She loves knowing that the time she gives is helping others. Every task, big or small, plays a part in supporting people in need and strengthening the community.
Christine admits “I don’t get out much with my health issues. But I love coming here!”
Together, the sisters enjoy working side by side. They encourage each other, share laughs with other volunteers and celebrate the small victories that come from being part of something bigger than themselves.
Along the way, they’ve made new friends who feel like family.
For Christine and Angie, volunteering isn’t just about giving their time. It’s where they have found peace, purpose and people who care. What began as “helping out” soon became a meaningful part of their weekly routine.
#1000liveschanged #church4lifecharities #volunteering
The best place to volunteer in Lake Macquarie.
