Investing in the lives of others

After driving his own taxi for 30 years, then retiring at the age of 74, Dennis Wyndham began volunteering at The Salvation Army’s Pacific Lodge Aged Care Plus Centre, driving residents to and from medical appointments.

“It is something I really enjoy – you meet so many interesting people,” Dennis says.

In addition to his taxi service, Dennis studied at Hawkesbury Agricultural College, worked as a jackaroo and spent years with Commonwealth Serum Laboratories.

After retiring through ill health, and with no direct living relatives, Dennis became a Salvation Army “Honoured Friend”, pledging to leave a bequest to The Salvation Army.

As well as volunteering at Pacific Lodge in Dee Why, he collects for The Red Shield Appeal and is also exploring the option of helping those who are struggling with depression after trauma and loss.

Dennis grew up with a father who was badly traumatised after being shot and gassed repeatedly in the First World War. “I have always admired The Salvation Army,” he says.

“They are sincere. They don’t judge people. If somebody’s starving, they give them food. If they need emotional advice, they give them that. When I collected for them, I’d knock on the door and people would say ‘I’ve always admired the Sallies because they’re sincere’. That’s the message that prevails.”

Glen Evans, of The Salvation Army, says of Dennis’ support: “At Pacific Lodge, the people love Dennis. He makes a real difference in their lives.”