This Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating the incredible individuals who give their time to support others and strengthen communities. This spotlight is on a volunteer from The Lighthouse Project, a non-profit charity providing a safe and welcoming space where people can connect, grow, learn and heal. Guided by a mission to inspire, support and empower, The Lighthouse Project helps create stronger, more connected communities where people feel valued and supported.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I worked for RCTCBC for 43 years and retired 4 years ago. I spent the last 20 years of my career in social work as a mental health practitioner and DOLs assessor.

How did you get involved?

I got into volunteering by accident. I learned about The Lighthouse project through a friend, so I just went in and introduced myself. I started as a Volunteer in the kitchen for the baby and toddler group, making snacks etc. Since then, the group has developed and a new group has formed called Safe Hands – I facilitate this with Dawn, we have a group of 14-15 for anyone isolated, lonely or bereaved. 

Before retiring, I had always been busy with work, so lockdown was difficult. I had to work from home and really missed being around other people – that contact and connection is important. My husband and I were at home for over a year because he needed to socially distance, so it was quite an isolating time. After Covid, we mostly returned to the office, but when I decided to retire, I chose to start volunteering instead.

What difference has volunteering made to you? 

Fulfilment: I like to be out helping people. Supporting people, seeing them progress and developing their confidence is very fulfilling. 

What difference has volunteering made to your organisation?

People are able to form friendships in our groups. We all eat together and sometimes this is the only weekly interaction some people have. The work we do helps people gain confidence and helps them progress. 

What would you say to encourage others to volunteer?

What 3 words would you use to describe volunteering:

Fulfilment, support and positivity!