By PSS | Posted: Tuesday December 22, 2020
When Lynn Morton joined the Presbyterian Support team in 2004, little did she know how wide and varied her involvement would become.
Lynn, who retired on September 10 after 16 years with the organization, has held many roles, from coordinating and managing volunteers for SupportLink, to being involved with the redevelopment of Peacehaven Village, extending the SupportLink service to other centres in Southland, responsibility for operational management of the independent living units at the three Presbyterian Support Retirement Villages in Southland, and sharing her passion for photography and history by assisting with the histories celebrating the Presbyterian Support Southland centenary and Peacehaven 65 year anniversary.
While she has enjoyed every one of her roles, it was her time working with Peacehaven residents and staff that holds a particularly special place in her heart.
“I have always had a real passion for Peacehaven Village and I enjoyed getting the village working together as a community…and just seeing people happy and at home.”
She had enjoyed creating activities for people to be involved in, and maintaining a connection between the village and the wider community.
This was particularly evident in the intergenerational activities the village residents were involved in, like taking some residents to a nearby school to teach the children to knit.
Being involved in the community, working with volunteers, and the dedicated Presbyterian Support staff were among the things she would miss most about leaving her role.
“(The part I have loved most) has been that I’ve been appreciated and valued. I have been able to use the skills that I have in developing some areas and sharing that with residents and volunteers.”
“There are aspects of all things that have been great. Some of it has been really hard work (but) worth it to see the positive outcomes for our community clients and ensuring that they get the best support that they can.”
Her time with the organization has also been heavily family focused – her husband Trevor is a valued and active Enliven volunteer, her son has spent time gathering Toheroa for Peacehaven residents, and her daughter and grandsons have all pitched in to help over the years with picnics and social events.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do what I’ve done without the help of my family.”
She and Trev now plan to explore the North Island in their motorhome in the early part of next year.
“I am really ready for retirement. It’s time for new blood and fresh faces to look at things. I am looking forward to what the future holds for us.”