Raychel is a Companion volunteer for the Illawarra CQ.
1. What drew you to CQ, and what do you love most about what you do?
I love seeing everyone having a great time. Everyone has a smile on their face from the moment they arrive and it doesn’t stop when they leave. I love the fact that everyone makes you feel welcome and you are treated exactly the same,whether it is your first time at camp or whether you have been coming for years. I also love the fact that everyone cares so much about each other. Our older campers love being at camp with the little campers and are so fantastic with them, its just lovely to see kids, who have been through so much, be able to relax and not have a care in the world whilst they are with us.
2. What have you learnt most about yourself from your involvement?
I think that I have learned that I can deal with most things, as long as we have our friends around us to support us
3. What signature strengths do you bring to CQ?
I think that I balance my silliness (which is essential at camp!) with sensibility and leadership. I think also being a little bit older helps me to understand when someone just needs a hug, it can do so much.
4. What’s a CQ moment you treasure?
There are just too many!! One that stands out was one of our concert nights at Summer Camp a few years ago. Everyone got involved – kids, companions, nurses, even the area manager! We sang, clapped and we all laughed till we were crying! It was an amazing night and one that I will remember always.
5. What do you love to laugh about?
Just plain silliness … seeing people just be themselves and having a ball puts a smile on my face.
6. What are you optimistic about?
Life! I think CQ has taught me that there is so much to live for, and that life has many twists and turns, but it is an amazing journey.
7. What would you say to someone considering joining the ‘CQ family’?
If you know how to have fun and are not afraid to be silly, then do it. Its one of the best things that you will ever do for yourself or someone else. It's an amazing family to be part of, and once you are in, you will never want to leave.