Volunteering is a powerful force, connecting communities and lifting spirits worldwide. Every year on 5 December, International Volunteer Day shines a light on the individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference. At Settlers Park Retirement Village, we recently celebrated this global occasion with a heartfelt thank-you tea to honour our incredible volunteers.
Volunteering is as old as humanity itself, rooted in the timeless values of kindness and service. From the disciples of Jesus to the millions who served in the British Indian Army during World War II, history is filled with examples of selfless giving. Today, we see similar acts of courage and dedication, such as the Ukrainians volunteering to defend their homeland or the Vietnamese rebuilding their nation with nothing more than picks and shovels.
Even in modern times, volunteerism thrives. In the United States, 63 million people volunteer annually, demonstrating the enormous impact individuals can have when driven by passion and purpose.
Here at Settlers Park, volunteering is woven into the fabric of our community. From running our well-loved library to managing the Trust Shop and nurturing our gardens, residents give freely of their time to enrich the lives of others. These efforts are not just acts of service; they are acts of love that build connections and combat loneliness.
Volunteering benefits everyone. For those who give, it boosts self-esteem, fosters a sense of purpose, and enhances well-being. For those who receive, it offers comfort, companionship, and the chance to learn or rediscover joy through activities like art, knitting, or gardening.
The contributions of Settlers Park volunteers extend far beyond our gates. From helping local schools to supporting the SPCA and soup kitchens, the generosity of our residents touches countless lives in Port Alfred and beyond. These acts of kindness remind us that volunteering is not about having extra time—it’s about having a big heart.
As we look ahead, let’s continue to find new ways to give. Could you read to a resident in the Care Centre? Join a group to bring comfort to those in Frail Care? Or simply share your skills and passions with others?
To every Settlers Park volunteer, we see you, and we appreciate you. Your commitment is the lifeblood of our community, enriching the lives of others while inspiring all of us to do more.
As Oscar Wilde beautifully said, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”
