"Volunteering makes me proud, very proud. It makes me feel happy, it is rewarding and empowering and useful, it brings happiness to people, and I like that."
Olivia from the Kindness Crew
At the Trust, we know the people we support can profoundly and positively impact on our society. But opportunities for those with learning disabilities to contribute in a meaningful way in a public setting can be few and far between.
We encourage our communities to embrace their surrounding areas to help strengthen community bonds and promote social change, leading to a more inclusive world. This also benefits individuals by boosting pride, adaptability to new surroundings, and possible employment. But all this takes time and meticulous planning from our dedicated co-production. That’s where we need your support.
Creating precious moments
The St Albans Kindness Crew volunteers at the Alban Manor nursing home once a month where they share an afternoon full of joy, music, dancing, and an endless supply of cups of tea with the elderly residents. Our Crew is empathic and sensitive to the residents' needs, and they find creative ways to communicate with people who have limited ways of expressing themselves.
Senior residents listen to songs played by our Kindness Crew that evoke memories and participate in seated dancing for those with limited movement (there was even a seated macarena led by our Kindness Crew member, Alex!). Meaningful friendships blossom through reading together, sharing laughs and reminiscing.
“I like to do my action songs with them (Macarena, etc); they follow my moves when they can, and it makes them laugh, and that's fun; we all need to have fun sometimes.”
Alex, St Albans Kindness Crew member
Finding purpose, joy and laughter for Hannah
Every Wednesday, Hannah, who has been with our St Albans Community for over five years, independently volunteers at Bernard Heath Junior School and has been there for a year. Hannah has had extensive training in safeguarding, and her knowledge means Hannah can provide much-needed support over lunchtime, ensuring a safe and orderly environment is maintained, opening food packages and organising games and activities during the break.
"Laughing with children, laughing and playing with them. I love telling them jokes!" says Hannah.
Before volunteering at the school, Hannah struggled to find an activity that excited her and truly represented who she was. She knew she had a purpose, and so did the Trust.
"Hannah tried the opportunities at the Trust, and they just weren't for her. Hannah's calling seems to lie within volunteering, and she's soared since she's been with the school. As a result, we're looking at different volunteer opportunities, like those in a care home." comments Alisha, Hannah's support worker.
Creative a life full of opportunity and meaning
Hannah's growth during her time volunteering at Bernard Heath Junior School is a testament to the Trust's commitment to community engagement and volunteer opportunities. Her natural rapport with children and the training she has received are a direct result of this support.
This growth has prepared her well for future employment as a teaching assistant. Hannah may have never had the opportunity to explore what her purpose is if it wasn’t for these specially tailored opportunities for the people with learning disabilities.
These initiatives, which profoundly impact our community, don't just 'happen'.
They result from days, weeks, and months of planning, from meetings with potential partnerships to the logistics of getting to and from venues to safeguarding. Your contribution is crucial in making these initiatives a reality. By giving a gift today, you are helping us access more resources to sustain and grow our community engagement program, which provides our participants with a sense of purpose and pride. Your kindness is not just a donation; it's a source of empowerment for these individuals.
Your support helps us continue these vital Green Care opportunities so we can help more people live their best lives.
