Helen Dykes is using retirement to champion the community as a volunteer at Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre

WHEN Bay local Helen Dykes retired she knew she wanted to use her skills and experience to give back to the community.

She has now been recognised for her “always awesome, incredible volunteer work” by the Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre (TNC).

Helen was named Volunteer of the Month “in recognition of her tireless work, dedication in coordinating the Kids Cooking Workshop and [for] delivering an engaging and educational community presentation”.

Thirteen years ago, driven by her passion for inclusivity and cultural understanding, Helen established a multicultural friendship group through the TNC.

Drawing on her background in this area, she connected people from all walks of life before it naturally came to a close as participants moved away or found employment.

The ending of that chapter was just the beginning of Helen’s next adventure.

With her trademark energy and warmth, she stepped into a new role at TNC, this time working in the office and eventually on the reception desk where she greets clients and assists with photocopying, scanning, and laminating.

She quickly became a vital part of the Centre’s daily operations.

“Every task, no matter how small, is about making someone’s day just a bit easier,” she said.

Helen soon began running monthly workshops to support others interested in volunteering.

Her sessions provide practical guidance, a sense of purpose, and a booklet of local volunteering opportunities.

“I encourage people to think outside the box. There are so many ways to help.”

Helen leads by example.

She is a guest speaker for local organisations, spreading awareness about TNC’s work, and also delivers free one-on-one computer lessons.

Whether it’s helping someone write a resume, sending an email, or applying for a passport online, Helen is there with her trademark patience and encouragement.

Many people walk in intimidated by technology and leave empowered.

“The look on their faces when they realise they can do it – that’s the reward.”

Of all Helen’s contributions, one project stands out as her personal favourite; the children’s cooking classes.

“I started them several years ago, and we had to pause during COVID,” she said.

“We’ve recently brought them back and the response has been incredible.”

Each session starts with a chat about healthy eating before the children prepare two dishes.

Her favourite moment is when the children set a table, invite their collecting parent or carer to sit, receive their menu, order, and be served their chosen food.

“The kids absolutely love it, and the parents do too.

“The joy on their faces is just beautiful.”

Helen’s colleagues describe her as the heart of the Centre, always ready to help, encourage, and uplift those around her.

However, she is quick to share the credit.

“The team here, both staff and volunteers, are just fantastic. So supportive and genuinely caring.

“I’ve learned a lot from the people who walk through our doors. Many face real hardship, and yet they keep going.

“That resilience inspires me every day.”

Looking back on her years of service, Helen feels proud and hopeful.

“Being a volunteer has given me a sense of fulfillment I never expected.

“I’ve used the skills I developed during my working life in new, meaningful ways, and I’ve met so many wonderful people.”

She encourages anyone considering volunteering to take the leap.

“Come to one of our sessions.

“You might discover something about yourself and make a real difference while you’re at it.”

For those who want to support TNC but cannot commit to regular volunteering, there are other ways to help.

Grocery donations, financial contributions, and toys at Christmas all go directly to families in need.

By Jacie WHITFIELD