Natasha Paratene and Pauline Mendes – New South Wales

Natasha came to the Here 2 Help program after her grandchildren’s teacher suggested it might provide support for her own learning goals. As the primary carer for her grandchildren, Natasha had shared that she experienced significant difficulties with reading and, as a result, felt unable to support her grandchildren’s literacy development.

Pauline joined Here 2 Help as a volunteer tutor following her retirement from a distinguished career as a speech pathologist. Since joining the program, she has become an invaluable member of our team. Her extensive professional knowledge, practical experience and generous sharing of resources have enriched the learning experiences of participants and provided valuable support and mentoring to fellow volunteer tutors.

Through Here 2 Help, Natasha and Pauline were matched and have developed a positive and productive learning partnership built on trust, respect and a shared commitment to achieving Natasha’s goals.

The partnership between Natasha and Pauline exemplifies the transformative impact that can occur when a committed learner is matched with a skilled and compassionate educator.

Natasha is a proud Indigenous woman who has taken on the responsibility of raising her grandchildren. She is determined to provide them with every opportunity to succeed. Her own educational journey has been challenging, shaped by learning difficulties and the lasting impacts of trauma. She wanted to improve her literacy skills not only to support her grandchildren’s learning, but also to navigate the complex paperwork and responsibilities involved in caring for them.

With Pauline’s personalised support, Natasha has made significant progress in both her learning and her confidence. She now feels less overwhelmed by the many agencies and commitments involved in caring for her grandchildren. She feels better able to organise family routines and responsibilities. Importantly, she now views learning as an enjoyable and achievable process, rather than a source of frustration and embarrassment.

For Pauline, volunteering with Here 2 Help has provided a deeply rewarding opportunity to continue using the skills and expertise developed throughout her professional career. She is passionate about learning alongside participants, expanding her understanding of adult literacy, and tailoring support to each learner’s interests and goals. Natasha has often commented on the value of being supported by someone with significant life experience, who she can trust and learn from.