Life change: Maria Ruffo and Judy Korthopel met through LifeCircle, which is calling for volunteers.Picture: Mike Sea
MARIA Ruffo, of Bella Vista, was battling alone through the challenges of being a carer to both her husband and mother.
But she was fortunate to have a "rock of support" in The Hills LifeCircle mentor Judy Korthopel.
The pair met in 2008 when Ms Ruffo contacted Home Hospice — later to become LifeCircle — through an ad.
Having relocated from South America she was unfamiliar with options available for her.
That's where Ms Korthopel comes in — within 24 hours she was in contact with Ms Ruffo and became her mentor.
Ms Ruffo said she soon noticed a big difference in her life — she had someone to talk to at any time about her questions and challenges.
"When I met her she was like a friend, some company, and was always ready to help me," she said.
LifeCircle encourages families, friends and communities to support people to thrive and live well.
They are now calling for people to volunteer as mentors and phone counsellors who will offer help and information about services available to carers.
They can choose how many carers they interact with and hours they put in.
"It's very rewarding to know you've helped another person," Ms Korthopel said.
The next information session is on Saturday, March 9.
Details: lifecircle.org.au or 1300 364 673.