5 September 2026
International Day of Charity
Celebrating the Helping Hand Giving Community
On 5 September each year, International Day of Charity recognises the important role that charities, volunteers, donors and supporters play in communities around the world.
For Helping Hand, it is also an opportunity to acknowledge the many people who have contributed to our organisation over more than 70 years.
Since 1953, Helping Hand has been supporting older South Australians. Over that time, our organisation has grown and changed, but the support of our community has remained an important part of our story.
Helping Hand is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity. The generosity of our community helps support our work with older people and contributes to services, programs and experiences that make a difference in their lives.
Giving takes many forms
There are many ways people contribute to Helping Hand. Some people choose to give their time as volunteers, sharing their interests, skills and companionship with residents and clients. Their contribution can help people stay connected with their community and continue doing the things they enjoy.
Helping Hand’s Auxiliary groups have also played an important role over the years. Through fundraising and other activities, Auxiliary members have supported their local residential care homes and contributed to projects and experiences for residents.
Donations are another important way people support Helping Hand. Some people choose to make a one-off donation, while others provide regular support. Donations may also be made in memory of a family member or friend, creating a meaningful way to honour someone who has been important in their lives.
Philanthropists and community supporters have also contributed to Helping Hand’s work throughout our history. Their generosity has helped support projects and initiatives that benefit older South Australians.
Some people choose to leave a Gift in their Will to Helping Hand. This is a lasting contribution that can help support older people into the future.
Our volunteers
Volunteers are an important part of the Helping Hand community. Across South Australia, Helping Hand volunteers spend time with older people, support activities and events, share their skills and interests, and provide companionship.
The contribution of a volunteer may seem simple, but spending time with someone, sharing a conversation or helping them take part in an activity can make a real difference to their day. Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds and bring their own experiences and interests to their roles. What they have in common is a willingness to give their time to support others.
We are grateful to each of them.
A long history of community support
Helping Hand would not be the organisation it is today without the support of the many people who have contributed to our story since 1953. Over the years, people have given their time, raised funds, made donations and supported Helping Hand in ways that are meaningful to them.
Our staff are also an important part of this story. While their work is different from volunteering or making a donation, the commitment they bring to supporting older people every day is at the heart of Helping Hand. Together, these contributions have helped create the community that surrounds Helping Hand today.
Thank you
International Day of Charity is a chance to recognise the value of giving and the many different ways people contribute to their communities.
We would like to thank everyone who has supported Helping Hand over the past 70 years, including our volunteers, Auxiliary members, donors, philanthropists, families, friends, staff and other community supporters.
Every contribution is appreciated, and we are grateful to everyone who chooses to be part of the Helping Hand Giving Community.