At BDCA, we value our volunteers. They make it possible for us to serve our neighbours in need through giving their time, skills and knowledge selflessly. We are celebrating National Volunteers Week (1-7 June) by sharing one story a day of some of our amazing volunteers as well as throwing them a tea party.

Today we meet Brian who volunteers for our Over 65s project.

“My journey with BDCA has been busy, full of fun and extremely rewarding.”

Around 12 years ago, Brian’s wife was diagnosed with dementia. He was given details for the Bonny Downs Over 65s activities as a place to take her to socialise and enjoy a range of activities from Coffee Mornings to weekends away. Brian took his wife to the Coffee Morning but he was not ready yet to sit back and relax himself so asked if he could help with setting up the activities. This led him to sign up as a volunteer who has been committed to the project for over a decade!

For Brian, volunteering has had a wide range of positive impact on him, from mental well-being, gaining new skills, building his confidence and making many new friends.

“I like to engage with other guests and be able to give some of my time back to the local community,” said Brian. “Life would be extremely difficult and lonely for me as BDCA is the only community group that I attend.”

Brian enjoys making a difference and offering his service for as long as he can.

If you would like to support BDCA, please see our current volunteering opportunities or donate here.