This week is National Volunteer Week. Volunteers are integral to the Y, so to celebrate we’re highlighting some of our volunteers who are doing incredible work.
Introducing Dave Gunstone! Having experienced firsthand the difference volunteers make in a person’s life, Dave wanted to be the difference and give back to others who like him have experienced hardship.
“I used to be homeless and lived in my car, but my local community took me in and involved me in their activities, which allowed me to take my mind off things and focus on bettering myself,” explained Dave.
“To say thank you, I wanted to pass the help on. That’s why I started volunteering. Volunteers and volunteering saved my life, and now I want to be a good example to others going through the same experiences I went through.”
Dave runs Y-Streetball – a drop in basketball game for those experiencing homelessness and disadvantage. Every Tuesday at North Melbourne Community Centre, everyone is welcome to drop in to play a few games, have a warm shower and eat a barbecued meal supplied and cooked by the community.
“Instead of doing drugs and drinking alcohol, people can channel their energy into sports, music, arts or companionship – it can be a life saver.”
In the four years since Y Streetball began, Dave has helped countless people out of rough situations and has seen them go into housing, back to school and start volunteering themselves.
“My biggest success is putting people I meet on the right path. Seeing the people I helped through the program getting into housing, schooling and employment is a pay cheque for me and no monetary value can be put on it. It makes me feel like I’ve reached the top of the mountain."
Y-Streetball has now expanded into two additional sessions, including one for people of all abilities. This program is Dave’s passion and he has plans to expand it into other areas to help more people.
“Volunteering has given me purpose and completely changed my life path. It made me realise the impact I can have on other people. Without volunteering I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Thanks to volunteers like Dave, the Y is able to help countless people every single day. We appreciate and thank them this week and every week for making our community a better, safer and healthier place.
Interested in participating or supporting Y Streetball? Fill out the form on the Y Streeball page.