By Romy Stephens
Before beginning as a volunteer at the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service (DRERS), Peter Pieklo struggled with socialising.
After Peter was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder about 20 years ago, offering his time to communicate with and help others was a daunting prospect.
But Peter said that since starting with DRERS 15 years ago, everything changed.
“I was kind of anti-social to start with so taking on this role was really difficult,” he said.
“But I overcame all of those challenges and now I thrive on it.”
Growing up, Peter said he always wanted to be in a position where he could help people.
Despite taking some time to complete training and settle into his position at DRERS, Peter has now become one of the organisation’s most valued volunteers.
“I’m a bit of a go-to for every department. I know pretty much the whole organisation and what needs to be done. If there’s a gap or shortage, I know how to fill it,” Peter said.
Peter has continued to volunteer right through the Covid-19 pandemic, shifting his attention towards transporting food from supermarkets to the DRERS emergency relief department in Belgrave.
He also often sits down with clients for a conversation where he mainly listens to their stories and provides any assistance possible.
Peter said volunteering with an emergency relief service presents its challenges but he greatly values the assistance his organisation provides.
“In the 15 years I’ve been there, we’ve dealt with people that are in and out of jobs, they have major issues, some have mental health issues, alcoholism, drugs you name it, we get it all,” he said.
“All of our clients that come to us know that we will be able to assist and they never leave without some sort of assistance and help.”
Peter said helping others gives him the most enjoyment in life and becoming a volunteer was the best decision he’s made.
“The most wonderful thing that I’ve ever done was take on this role and I can see myself going over 20 years as long as my health doesn’t fail,” he said.
“I just love it, it’s a passion for me, it’s not going into work.”
The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service is a non-profit organisation that connects the community and supports people experiencing financial stress, crisis and hardship.
For more information, visit www.drers.org.au.
