The Inspiring Story of Michelle Korszok and Her Work with the Hastings Senior Citizens Register

CHAT SESSION 149 Michelle Korszok

🎧 Catch Up Link

Topic- A Safe and Connected Community: The Role of Volunteers in Supporting Seniors

Monday 6^th April 2026 1pm https://rppfm.com.au

The Spark to Make a Difference: Joining the Hastings Senior Citizens Register

In 2017, Michelle decided to take her community involvement a step further. She learned about the Hastings Senior Citizens Register, a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting elderly residents within the Westernport area—covering places from Shoreham to Baxter. Inspired by the work being done and encouraged by fellow volunteers living in her retirement village, Michelle chose to become a volunteer herself.

The Hastings Senior Citizens Register is a joint police-community initiative established in 2001. Its core mission is to ensure that senior citizens feel safe, secure, and connected within their local environment. The organization is run by a dedicated team of volunteers, with support from a police officer liaison, emphasizing the importance of safety and community cohesion.

The Mission and Objectives of the Register

The Register’s primary aim is to foster a sense of security and well-being among senior residents. The organization strives to achieve several key objectives:

To make elderly people feel safer — by providing reassurance and resources to help them feel protected in their daily lives.

To ensure ready access to information during emergencies — creating a direct line of communication for urgent situations.

To increase awareness of safety and security among seniors — empowering individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves.

To minimize the concerns of family members — offering peace of mind to relatives who worry about their loved ones’ safety and welfare.

Growing the Community: Membership and Outreach

Today, the Hastings Senior Citizens Register boasts approximately 800 members, with an ambitious goal to grow to over 1,000 members by 2026. Membership is open to all senior residents within the specified geographic area, and it is completely free of charge. This accessible approach ensures that all seniors who wish to participate can do so without financial barriers.

Members benefit from a range of services designed to promote safety, connection, and support. These include the issuance of identity cards, regular telephone contact—monthly or fortnightly—home visits, and participation in social activities. The organization’s commitment to community building is exemplified through events such as afternoon teas at the Hastings Bowls Club, which foster social connections and combat loneliness among seniors.

How the Program Works

The Hastings Senior Citizens Register operates with a well-structured approach that guarantees confidentiality, safety, and engagement:

Personal Information Privacy: All members’ personal details are securely stored on a private database at Hastings Police Station, ensuring confidentiality and data security.

Volunteer Training and Safety: All volunteers, including Michelle, have undergone police checks at no cost, underscoring the organization’s commitment to safety.

Ongoing Support: Volunteers like Michelle make approximately 40 calls per month, engaging in friendly chats that help reduce feelings of isolation. Many seniors live alone and face social isolation, making these calls vital for their mental and emotional well-being.

Home Visits and Social Activities: For those who need extra support, volunteers conduct home visits in the organization’s easily identifiable vehicle. Social gatherings, such as afternoon teas, foster a sense of community and belonging.

The Role of Volunteers: Michelle’s Dedication

Michelle’s involvement with the Hastings Senior Citizens Register is driven by her heartfelt desire to give back. She is not just a volunteer; she is also a member of the volunteers' committee, serving as the Public Relations Officer. Her role involves spreading awareness about the organization and encouraging more seniors to join and participate.

Michelle’s calls serve a dual purpose: providing reassurance and companionship. She often talks with seniors who may be feeling lonely, offering a friendly voice and a caring presence. Her efforts help to create a network of support that extends beyond just safety—to encompass friendship and community.

Supporting the Organization

The Hastings Senior Citizens Register is largely self-funded, relying on community donations and support from local organizations. These funds ensure the continuation of essential services, including the production of membership cards, maintenance of the database, and organization of social activities.

Community members and families are encouraged to refer seniors who might benefit from the services. Membership forms are available at doctors’ surgeries, pharmacies, and medical facilities across the Mornington Peninsula, making it easy for seniors to sign up and get involved.

Kerry and Michelle

Conclusion: A Community Built on Compassion

Michelle Korszok’s story is a testament to how one person’s initiative and caring spirit can positively influence many lives. Her dedication, along with the efforts of other volunteers, helps seniors on the Mornington Peninsula to feel safer, more connected, and valued.

Community organizations like the Hastings Senior Citizens Register serve as vital lifelines for our elderly residents. They foster a culture of caring, safety, and companionship, ensuring that no one must face aging alone. Michelle’s journey exemplifies the power of community service and reminds us all of the importance of looking out for our neighbours.

If you are inspired by Michelle’s story and want to make a difference, consider volunteering or supporting local initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our senior citizens. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels safe, loved, and connected.

Police Officer with Michelle and Denise

How You Can Help

If you or someone you know has a senior family member or friend who could benefit from the services of the Hastings Senior Citizens Register, reaching out is simple. The organization can be contacted at 0499 910 904. If the office is unmanned when you call, leave a message, and someone will return your call. Volunteers are always needed—whether for making friendly telephone calls or conducting home visits. The organization welcomes new volunteers willing to dedicate their time to building a safer, more connected community.

Michelle and husband Tony

Michelle with granddaughter Chloe

My hope is that when you’re looking at yourself in the

‘The Daily Mirror’

YOU SMILE

EMBRACE BEING YOU

AND FIND 10 MINUTES IN YOUR DAY TO NOURISH YOUR SOUL!

To get in touch with Cathy email smileinthedailymirror@gmail.com 

'The Daily Mirror' acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.