At the Brent Irish Advisory Service (BIAS), we are proud to support people every day, offering essential services that make a real difference in the lives of our community. However, one of our most valuable resources is our volunteers, whose dedication and hard work help us deliver these services in the best way possible. They are the heart of our organisation, and today, we would like to share the story of one of our most involved and cherished volunteers: Maria.
Maria initially came to the BIAS Active Ageing Club to accompany her mother. During this time, she became well-known within the community for her caring and attentive nature. After her mother passed away, Maria took some time for herself. Eventually, she returned to the club—not as a visitor, but as a volunteer.
Maria embodies the spirit of kindness and dedication. With her friendly personality, she quickly became an indispensable part of BIAS. Always ready to lend a helping hand, she supports both BIAS and its service users with unwavering commitment. Her skills and willingness to help the community make her essential to every club and event at BIAS. Thanks to her contributions, more than 70 service users can enjoy the Active Ageing Club every week. And in fact, Maria’s involvement goes beyond day-to-day activities. She welcomes people at the clubs, takes attendance, helps set up the space, and even manages the bingo game and raffle sales. She plays a vital role in ensuring special events like our annual St Patrick’s Day celebrations and Halloween and Christmas parties run smoothly and that everyone feels welcomed.
For Maria, volunteering at BIAS is more than just a way to keep busy; it’s a deeply personal fulfilment and a way to make a significant impact on the Irish community.
Maria’s story is a testament to the power of volunteering. Through her dedication, she has transformed personal loss into a force for good, providing support to the BIAS community. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many, creating a ripple effect of kindness and support throughout the Irish community.
Thank you, Maria, from all of us at BIAS!
If Maria’s story has inspired you, have a look at our Volunteer page for more information on how you can get involved in BIAS’s work.