Kardinia International College star shines at Toy Library

THE Ocean Grove Toy Library (OGTL) has praised the selfless work of one of its volunteers in light of a “tumultuous, COVID-impacted year”.

Kardinia International College Year 9 student Georgia Simpson undertook the Duke of Edinburgh Award as part of her studies this year, choosing the Ocean Grove Toy Library for her voluntary community service component, and making an impact while undertaking her hours.

“Georgia has been with us almost every Saturday since April and what an asset to the committee and library she’s become,” OGTL co-ordinator Lin Grant said.

“She’s made a huge contribution, particularly providing continuity week-in week-out, it’s been brilliant.”

Ms Simpson said she enjoyed helping out at the Toy Library so much that she changed her major to continue her voluntary service until the end of the year.

“I have learnt lots of social skills while volunteering at the Toy Library.

“It has taught me how to communicate with people in a friendly environment and I will take this new skill with me to my future jobs.”

Georgia’s mother Wendy noticed the volunteering certainly had a positive impact on her daughter.

“Georgia has gained many skills, however the most noticeable is her confidence in speaking to people, particularly adults, since commencing at the Toy Library,” Wendy said.

“Georgia has also, through volunteering, gained an appreciation of the value of giving back to the community.

“The Toy Library volunteers have been so welcoming and kind to Georgia. It didn’t take long for her to settle in there. She always loves attending and each week she comes home very happy after her shift.”

Ocean Grove Toy Library is reaching out to other local schools to offer another student volunteer place for next year.

If you would like to be involved, email Ms Grant at [email protected]

To join the library, head to oceangrovetoylibrary.org.au