‘Never too old to make a difference’

‘Never too old to make a difference’ – event celebrates contribution of older volunteers and invites others to give it a go

Representatives from the world of volunteering gathered at Belfast City Hall this week to celebrate older people who give their time for others and to inspire others to do the same, underlining the message that there is no age limit when it comes to being a volunteer.

Age Friendly Belfast, Volunteer Now and the Healthy Ageing Strategic Partnership (HASP) brought together guests aged 60+ who make a difference in their community through volunteering, both to recognise their achievements and to inspire more people in this age bracket to give volunteering a try.

Hosted by Belfast City Council, guests were welcomed to the special celebration event by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray who praised the incredible contribution older volunteers make to the city and society as a whole.

“Volunteers are the bedrock of our city – they connect our community and make it a better place. From those who act as a listening ear to those who share their skills, volunteers show us what it is to be human. This is why we support volunteer-involving organisations and groups across the city. We are delighted to welcome so many of our fantastic older volunteers to City Hall for this end of year celebration. It’s a small way for us to show our appreciation for the difference they make in our city every day,” said the Lord Mayor of Belfast.

One of many volunteers celebrated at the event was Belfast woman Hazel McLean. Hazel is founder of the Connection Hub for Older People in Belfast’s 2 Royal Avenue, a member of G6 (Greater Belfast Seniors) and vice-chair of the Shankill Forum.

“There are so many benefits to volunteering I don’t know where to start!” said Hazel McLean.
“As we get older, some of us might think it is time to slow down but for me I think it’s just time to get going. We’re presented with a bit of free time and it’s down to us to think about how we will use it. Getting involved with volunteering in the community helps your mind and body stay active. It helps you socialise and make friends with other people. And on top of this, you’re doing something that helps others.

“We set up the Grapevine Hub in the centre of Belfast every Tuesday morning in 2 Royal Avenue to let people come along and have a coffee, to learn about different activities and events happening in the city. We find that just by getting out and about, people can feel better in themselves, it gives them a goal, a purpose. It was great to see so many volunteers being recognised at City Hall this week and we hope that more older people will realise you’re never the wrong age to be a volunteer. I’m 81 and I can’t imagine not volunteering and getting involved with the local community – it’s a great thing to do in life.”

Lindsay Armstrong of Volunteer Now and member of HASP said: “This week’s celebration event at Belfast City Hall was evidence of the value of volunteers of all ages. There is no age limit to volunteering because there is a role that suits almost everyone. Through networks like HASP, we are committed to making Belfast an age-friendly city, meaning there are more ways than ever for older people to feel valued and connected.

“There is perhaps a perception that the only volunteering roles for older people are predictable or monotonous, but we are launching a campaign to show that simply isn’t the case. From volunteering at special events to phoning isolated people in the community for a weekly chat, you can find something that works for you and your lifestyle.

“People like Hazel, and everyone recognised at this event, are living examples of how staying actively involved in the community is life-changing. The truth is, you are simply never too old to make a difference,” Lindsay Armstrong said.

To find out more about current volunteer opportunities available have a look at our Opportunity Search!