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For National Volunteer week, we interviewed some of our dedicated Good Shepherd volunteers to celebrate the hard-work and value these individuals bring to our Mission.
Paul Mey is one of those volunteers who has been volunteering at our Good Money Salisbury site since September last year.
“Giving back to the community is one of my core personal values. It is something I believe I should continue to uphold.”
After emigrating with his family from Cambodia in 2023, Paul sought out volunteer positions to start supporting those who needed help in his new community in Adelaide.
“While Australia offers vast opportunities, new migrants like me face challenges integrating due to cultural, language, legal, and regulatory differences. Volunteering at Good Shepherd not only helps me learn about these aspects but also provides a sense of purpose and harmony in my new country and community.”
In Cambodia, Paul worked for organisations such as Lutheran World Federation, establishing programs to support vulnerable people in remote Kampong Chhnang province. He also supported individuals and families living in poverty with providing them with safe, low-interest loans and the financial knowledge that they need to help them live independently without risking further financial hardship. Paul’s experience in this area has aligned with the work that we do at Good Shepherd in financial wellbeing and the volunteer position he currently holds at Good Money Salisbury.
Paul has a long history of volunteering. Whilst working for ANZ Royal, he volunteered as a part-time English teacher, he volunteered to paint a school wall, was a road safety promoter and distributed study materials to children with limited resources.
Good Shepherd has been lucky enough to have Paul as one of our dedicated and passionate volunteers. Each week, Paul has brought his passions, knowledge, skills and positive attitude to Good Shepherd to help support clients out of our Salisbury site in Adelaide over the phone and in person, assisting with queries on No Interest Loans (NILs) and the loan application process.
One thing that has stood out for Paul in his time volunteering at Good Shepherd is the supportive team that has allowed him to settle into his role, understand the work, and hit the ground running to support his community.
“Good Shepherd’s mission – supporting, empowering, and advocating for positive changes for vulnerable people – are crucial for building a cohesive and harmonious community. Volunteering here brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose, and it also offers opportunities for skill development and career advancement.”
In his role, Paul hopes to advance his skills and assist more clients to give them the financial assistance they need and use the skills he has developed from his career to grow the support Good Shepherd can provide.
Thank you to Paul for your hard work, dedication, and compassion that you bring to your role every day.
