Finding a way to help
David’s first role with THF involved bringing books to patients on the wards. But he quickly realised that many patients wanted more than a book — they wanted someone to listen, to connect with, and to bring a little comfort. This insight led him to the Eat, Walk, Engage (EWE) program, a THF initiative focused on holistic patient support in the medical wards.
"One gentleman in that team played a significant role in my family member’s recovery. I was asked to join the EWE committee as a consumer rep and was involved in writing the EWE volunteer duty statement. So after the duty statement cleared all the red tape, I became the first volunteer from the Foundation to be part of the EWE team as I could see the need for the work they did in the medical wards."
A calling revealed
Through EWE, David’s volunteer work evolved into something deeper. He started accompanying patients to the hospital’s prayer garden, listening to their stories, and providing practical support. These experiences inspired him to pursue Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), a 20-week program involving supervision, case studies, and hands-on patient care.
“Pastoral care is a calling because it comes from a desire to help others with love and faith,” David explains. “You enter their world and walk alongside them through their struggles.”
Now a pastoral carer at Toowoomba Base Hospital, David’s days are never the same. From morning devotions to comforting patients and families, he encounters moments that are both challenging and profoundly rewarding.
“One of the most moving examples for me was walking around the ward with a man suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s. He just clutched my arm and cried as we walked. I took him back to his room and helped him remove his shoes so he could go to bed. Pastoral care is more than just talking; it is providing a calming presence in times of distress.”
Opening pathways for impact
David’s journey shows how THF’s structured volunteering opportunities can spark growth and discovery. What starts as a small act of giving can lead to new skills, personal development, and even a vocation.
“When I started as a Foundation volunteer, I realised the impact that pastoral care has on patients and their families. As a volunteer, I was on the outside looking in. Through this experience, I was able to take the next step and really walk alongside people through their struggles,” he reflects.
Join the THF volunteer community
David encourages anyone considering volunteering to explore THF’s programs. Whether it’s through EWE, the mobile library, or other roles, every hour given makes a real difference for patients and families in the Darling Downs.
“If your heart is pulled toward that kind of deep care, maybe you're being called too,” he says.
