Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale is marking this Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) by celebrating all of its amazing volunteers who make an almighty difference to its local work.
Hundreds of volunteers support older people living in our communities who are often facing the devastating effects of loneliness and isolation with no family or friends to turn to.
A “Volunteer Wall of Recognition has been launched on the charity’s website to share volunteer stories from just a few of those involved, including the charity’s oldest volunteer aged 91 and its youngest aged 18!
When asked about her experience with the charity, volunteer Noreen explained “I’m so glad to be part of the Age Connects volunteer team. I always miss my parents so much because they’re not living in this country and I’m not able to visit them every year.
“I felt like something was missing in my life till I came across the ‘befriending scheme of Age Connects’. I joined it and felt like a missing piece of my picture had been found. Each of my clients was almost my mother’s age. I very much enjoyed spending time with them. Love to listen to their life experiences, changes in time and world through their life journey. It makes my heart so peaceful and happy. Every week, I look forward to meeting again and often think about them like they’re my family. It’s a beautiful feeling to connect with someone by heart.”
Cardiff Volunteer Development Officer, Angela adds “Age Connects is proud of its long history of providing volunteer support and keeping people connected to their community. Over 300 incredible volunteers support our work by giving their time and skills. We could not provide our services without their invaluable help. I have been humbled by the dedication of our volunteers, existing and new. The acts of kindness I have witnessed have genuinely brought tears to my eyes, and I truly believe that whilst we live in a very busy, vibrant city – the true kindness of our wonderful community does shine through.
“We offer a range of stimulating and interesting volunteer opportunities, from home visits and transport to appointments and telephone befriending just to name a few, and I would urge anyone who feels that they can spare some time to give back to please get in touch.”
To sum up, 96 year old Cardiffian Leonard shares what having his volunteer Nikki means to him “I met Nikki a few years ago, she goes to the post office, gets my pension, and any extra shopping or other jobs I need. It’s a big help. I would miss her if she didn’t come here.
It makes me happy if I am here on my own and I don’t see anybody. Even the phone doesn’t go. I feel lonely. If I see Nikki, it picks me up. It makes me better. I have got a friend now.”
