Stories and Outcomes Blog We love our volunteers Thank you Each and every volunteer brings something so special to our work at Hope into Action. From our friendship & support volunteers, to the people who spend their company volunteering days with us, to those who help out in our offices. This volunteers’ week, everyone at Hope into Action says thank you for all that you do. To celebrate Volunteers' Week we have published the following: Kate Doran-Smith, head of delivery and training at Hope into Action has written a blog about all things volunteering Below, are just a few examples of the generosity and kindness provided by our volunteers. Dianne, a friendship and support volunteer said: "As a friendship and support volunteer I support someone who has been struggling with certain things in life. I come alongside them and support them in any way I can. It's really nice catching up with them, seeing them growing, overcoming things and it's just nice to be part of that. "I know I do it to help them but it actually helps me as well. I'm there to support my tenant, but it feels she she's a friend now. "It's so rewarding being able to come alongside someone when they're struggling. I know I've been there. I've been in need of a friend and having someone who supports you, just even listens to you, it really makes a difference." My volunteering day with Hope into Action Taking part in the volunteering day with Hope into Action was a genuinely uplifting experience, made even more meaningful by the fact that it took place during Lent. Giving my time in a season focused on reflection, compassion, and service added a deeper sense of purpose to the day. One of the highlights was having the chance to talk with some of the residents and work alongside them. Sharing tasks shoulder to shoulder created a sense of connection that felt natural and human. It was inspiring to see how much can be achieved in a short period of time when people come together with a shared goal. The impact was visible, and the sense of collective achievement was energising. It was also lovely to connect with colleagues in a different way. Instead of the usual work conversations, we talked about families, hobbies, and the things that bring us joy. Those moments of genuine connection reminded me how important it is to see each other as whole people, not just co‑workers. The beautiful weather certainly helped lift everyone’s spirits too. I would wholeheartedly recommend this kind of volunteering day to any organisation. It strengthens relationships in a way that office interactions alone simply can’t. When people get to know each other on a deeper level, trust grows. That trust carries back into the workplace—making collaboration easier, conversations more open, and the environment more supportive. Even small talk over coffee becomes more meaningful when you’ve shared an experience like this together. Volunteering doesn’t just support the community; it strengthens the bonds within a team. It encourages empathy, builds confidence, and reminds us of the value of helping others. I left the day feeling grateful, connected, and inspired—and I believe others would too. With love, Volha (volunteer) Cate & Dave part of the F&S from a partner church hosted a refugee family for a Cream tea as part of their support Cate said: “I enjoy coming alongside people who have been through difficult times to help them settle into a new place and to encourage them towards a better future. Things are easier with a friend alongside and we can show people the love of Jesus in this way." Manage Cookie Preferences