Trudy Van Stee runs A Friends Place at Waihī Beach.
Trudy Van Stee is in her happy place behind the drums at a music afternoon at A Friends Place.
She’s surprised to be Volunteering Services’ volunteer of the month, but the many others at Waihī Beach aren’t - they know about the many activities and connections she’s developed.
Trudy moved to Waihī Beach from Auckland where she was in the printing trade, and spent eight months researching what was needed to improve the lives of older people living at the beach. She worked as a diversional therapist for eight years at Athenree Rest Home, had trained in dementia management, and felt there was a better way to improve older people’s lives.
“I spent eight months finding a venue, finding volunteers, talking to churches, doctors and rest homes and designing what we’d offer. I also raised funds for equipment and found this room at the Waihī Beach Community Centre.
“I learned a lot about making funding applications - I make five a year. I have 13 volunteers who keep the activities running. Many are ex-nurses and they’re rostered on so the attendees are never let down.”
