06 November 2025
Volunteering is at the heart of Mission Guild’s century-long commitment to service at St Peter’s College.
Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting the Guild’s charitable mission and upholding the values of service, learning and compassion. This year alone, the Recycled Uniform Shop (RUS) has raised $55,000, with every dollar donated directly to our partner charities, Anglicare SA and St John’s Youth Services.
As we continue this important work, we are seeking a new RUS Coordinator and additional volunteers to join Mission Guild. We would love your support. Whether you can offer a few hours each term or step into a leadership role, your contribution will make a meaningful difference to others while strengthening your connection to our school community.
To offer an insight into the experience of volunteering, this edition features Dianna Karounos, Vice Chair of Mission Guild, in our Volunteer Profile. Dianna’s reflections capture the purpose, joy and sense of belonging that comes from giving back through Mission Guild.
Interested in joining Mission Guild?
Your time and enthusiasm can make a real impact.
Click here Mission Guild Volunteers to register your interest and join the Mission Guild volunteer team.
Volunteer Profile – Dianna Karounos
Dianna is one of the many generous individuals who contribute their time and energy to support Mission Guild’s work. Through their service, volunteers not only model generosity and community spirit for our students but also help strengthen the culture of service that defines St Peter’s College.
Read Dianna’s story in her own words:
1. What first inspired you to get involved with Mission Guild?
I was inspired after attending the Mission Guild High Tea in 2023. Listening to the speakers was incredibly moving, but it was my conversation with Nicole Chaplin, CEO of St John’s Youth Services, that truly stayed with me. Her passion and the impact of the work being done made it clear that this was something I wanted to be part of.
2. How long have you been volunteering, and what roles have you held?
I began volunteering in 2023. Since then I have served as Secretary and I am currently Vice Chair, a role I will continue in until 2026.
3. What does being part of Mission Guild mean to you?
Giving back has always been important to me. Mission Guild provides a meaningful way to do this, while also setting an example for my children about compassion, generosity and being actively involved in helping others.
4. How do you see Mission Guild’s work aligning with the School’s values of service and community engagement?
Supporting those in need reflects our commitment to service, respect and compassion. It feels meaningful to live out these values and encourage others to do the same.
5. What drew you to volunteering in the Recycled Uniform Shop (RUS)?
The RUS is one of our key fundraising areas. It supports sustainability, reduces waste and helps build a sense of community within the school.
6. What do you enjoy most about working in the RUS?
Definitely the laughter and conversations with other volunteers. It has also been a great way to meet and welcome new families.
7. How important are donations from families to the success of the RUS?
They are essential. Donations keep the shop running, and anything we cannot sell is passed on to charity, so nothing is wasted.
8. How does it feel knowing the RUS supports Anglicare SA and St John’s Youth Services?
It is incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts directly support organisations making a real difference to vulnerable members of our community.
9. Have you seen the impact of these contributions?
I have often heard how Anglicare SA’s Turning Point Packages have helped families facing hardship. Knowing we play a small part in that is very meaningful.
10. What would you say to someone considering volunteering?
Give it a try. It is rewarding, flexible and easy to fit around other commitments. Even one shift a term makes a difference.
11. How has volunteering enriched your connection to the School?
I have met some incredible people. Many of the women involved in Mission Guild have become close friends.
12. Do you have a favourite volunteering moment?
Attending the Anglicare SA thank you event at Government House was a highlight, it was a lovely way to celebrate the impact of our work and connect with others in service.