Volunteer Spotlight: Nicole
Nicole worked with our founder Carly in her prior corporate life and wanted to get involved after seeing Carly’s passion for Baby Give Back. And when she started volunteering, it didn’t take long for her to see the real, lasting impact Baby Give Back was having on vulnerable families. Five years on, a regular at our Tuesday night volunteering sessions, Nicole reflects on her journey of giving back, the friendships she’s formed and the power of community.
Can you share a memorable moment with us? Or a few moments?
There are so many memorable moments. It’s incredibly special when clothing or goods are donated back to us by families we have supported who then want to support others. It means that they are in a better place and hopefully what Baby Give Back gave helped with that.
I also love when Carly and the team share the impact and stories of families we have helped. The greatest joy is hearing the stories from support workers of the difference in a family’s life, reminding them they are loved and supported.
What have you enjoyed most about being part of the volunteer community at Baby Give Back?
It’s the little moments, the village of volunteers who have become true friends and supporters of one another. Baby Give Back is a very special place and the best summary I can give is that I always feel lighter and happier on a Tuesday night when volunteering is done.
I also love watching the care that goes into everything the volunteers do. Looking for beautiful items in the clothing, presenting the boxes, choosing themes and colours when we can. Nothing is ever done carelessly.
Why do you feel that helping families matters?
I think beyond the immediate tangible support, it is the flow on effects. Letting a parent or carer know that someone cares; supporting them in raising their children, but mostly showing them that people are willing to help without judgement will often flow into so many other areas of their lives. It’s always more than just a box of clothes.
Is there a story of a family helped that touched your heart or stuck with you?
I recall packing an order for a family where the mum had passed away suddenly and the dad was raising three young girls. We had some special extras just waiting for the right family and I have such a vivid memory of the volunteers on the night hunting down special things to include, hairbrushes and ties, toys and clothes.
If you could send a message to the families we help, what would you want them to know?
They are loved and supported and that they are enough. Every conversation at Baby Give Back is about how deserving these families are of whatever support we can give.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering for the first time?
Do it. Very simple. There is not a moment of volunteering I regret.
In a few words or a short sentence, what keeps you coming back to volunteer?
I gain far more than I could ever give.
If you could explain BGB in 3 words or a short sentence, what would you say?
Support, community, equality
It’s hard to keep it to three! 😊
Anything else to add?
I have deep admiration for the team and volunteers at Baby Give Back.
