Hearing stories of war, survival, migration and reality from residents are some of the motivations behind 17-year-old Damon Chester’s weekly volunteer visits to the Anglicare nursing home in Richmond.
The Bligh Park teenager drops in after school each Tuesday to simply ‘‘have a chat’’.
Damon’s grandfather passed away last year. He misses his stories.
Damon said the elderly had ‘‘real stories of reality and hardships’’ unlike people of his age group.
‘‘Lots of teenagers these days only seem to talk about gossip and other irrelevant things,’’ Damon said.
‘‘Sometimes it’s good to escape that and listen to real interesting stories about the good and bad that life has brought them. It’s a learning curve for me and a very rewarding experience.’’
The Richard Johnson Anglican School student said many residents were lonely and enjoyed having someone to talk to.
‘‘They teach you to communicate, because if you can communicate with them, you can communicate with anyone.’’
David Mew is a newcomer to the home and believes there should be more community-minded young people like Damon.
The former Air Force officer of 27 years said his interaction with Damon brightened his day.
Damon was described as one of the most reliable volunteers to come through the doors by diversional therapist Christine Gribble.
The employee of 16 years said he didn’t miss a week and was determined to stay for the long term.
