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December 20, 2006
Holroyd Alcoa Timehelp program helping local schools
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With the support of Alcoa Australia Rolled Products and Holroyd City Council, the Holroyd Alcoa Timehelp Program is making a difference to the future of young people in western Sydney.
Funded through the Alcoa Foundation, Alcoa ARP Yennora is partnering with Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), Holroyd City Council and SEAL Force to introduce the program to local schools.
Timehelp originally began in Melbourne in 2003 and matches senior volunteers with local state schools to assist wherever they can, in the process building stronger and more vibrant communities.
The Holroyd Alcoa Timehelp Program started this year and already Merrylands, Yennora and Sherwood Grange and Public Schools all enjoy the valuable assistance provided by Timehelp volunteers, with Wentworthville soon to follow.
Yennora Public School Principal, Ms Anja Schuette said the program is welcome relief, “There are 131 students in our school and staff are under a lot of pressure. The volunteers make a huge difference and have a lot to share with our students,” she said.
Holroyd City residents Mr Colin Grainger and his wife Helen volunteer at Yennora Public School.
“The majority of students are refugees, many only having left detention centres in recent weeks or months,” he said.
“Helen and I assist teachers with class room lessons but additionally contribute to the children’s lives by providing contact with older people where grandparents are not able to be part of their lives.”
It’s not just the students who benefit from the program.
“I am enjoying working with the children and helping them to a better life. It gives me great joy and adds energy to my life,” Mr Grainger said.
Holroyd City Council Mayor, Councillor John Brodie says the program has enriched the lives of everyone involved in Timehelp.
"Timehelp offers a fantastic opportunity for local seniors to share their valuable skills and knowledge with the community and make a real difference to individual lives," Councillor Brodie said.
Alcoa ARP is proud to be involved in the Timehelp program that benefits so many people across the age spectrum in the local community.
Contact details:
Josephine Parrett
02 9681 9554 or 0404 800 542
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