He wanted to do some voluntary work in his semi-retirement. 

With a science degree under his belt and a background in maths and statistics, Mike knew he could make a valuable contribution to a very worthy cause.

He wanted that contribution to be with a charity that had the potential to benefit anyone in the community and ensured that all funds raised were kept in the Wingecarribee Shire. Can Assist ticked both boxes.

So when the position of treasurer on the Can Assist committee came up he eagerly stepped up to the role.  “I had no hesitation in saying yes,” he said. “I didn’t know alot about the charity, but quickly learned and I am gobsmacked by what a wonderful charity this is. I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Mike said the reality check on the value of Can Assist came when he realised how many people were affected by cancer in the Wingecarribee.

He said there were more than 250 people on the books. This included some people in remission.

“Can Assist provides funding that primarily helps these people with there cancer-related medical needs – about $6500 each month goes towards paying pharmacy bills.”

Mike is equally “gobsmacked” by the generosity of the Highlands community. 

He said that Can Assist received no government funding. “The charity relies entirely on fundraising activities and donations and there are many individiuals and community groups that offer support,” he said.

Major fundraising activites run by the Can Assist volunteers each year include a movie night and a dinner or luncheon.

Among the upcoming fundraising activities organised by community groups include the Wingecarribee Cup golf day to be held at Highlands Golf Club on May 19.  For further information or to take part call the Pro Shop on 4871 3274.

This will be followed by a Mexican night in Bowral on June 1 from 6pm. Fiesta will be presented by Duncan Hill Property at Ludo at 52 Station Street, Bowral.

Another fundraising event planned for June will be a performance by the Highlands Singers and featuring Geoff Harvey at Bowral Memorial Hall from 2pm on June 9. Admission is by gold coin donation with all funds going to Can Assist.

In addition to these and other fundraising activities Can Assist relies on the generosity of time from volunteers. 

Mike said more volunteers were largely needed to assist with specific fundraising activities.

He said it was not a matter of people offering their support on a week-by-week basis. “It is more about having volunteers available to assist with activities such as selling raffle tickets or helping at special events such as movie night,” he said.

For further information about Can Assist or to become a volunteer call 0474 647 506.