The Visitation Program is dedicated to providing care and companionship to elderly members of the Italian-Australian community.
The event, organised by the Visitation Program team led by Filomena Adem, honoured the many volunteers, both past and present, who over decades have given their time, compassion and warmth to members of the community.
In his address, Co.As.It. President Vincent Volpe recalled how the Visitation Program was launched in 1985 through the vision of Sir James Gobbo, the dedication of then–Executive Director Giancarlo Martini Piovano and the contribution of Sister Anna Doublé, one of the first volunteers who was present at the celebration.
“[The program is] a true jewel among Co.As.It.’s initiatives and a shining example of the solidarity and generosity of the Italian-Australian community,” he said.
During the ceremony, all volunteers received the traditional certificate of appreciation, recognising their commitment and kindness.
“What our volunteers do is not merely an act of assistance,” said Co.As.It. CEO Marco Fedi, “but a gesture we all make every day—an act of care and presence toward the people around us.”
Special recognition was also given to Emma Contessa, Director of Co.As.It.’s Aged Care Department, and to the program’s sponsors, including Go Salary, whose Director Tony Vitacca and Client Manager Chris Cassidy attended the event.
The celebration concluded with a toast to friendship and service, and with Co.As.It.’s symbolic embrace of all its volunteers, described as “the true pillars of our community”.
