"Growing up I longed to be a special needs teacher, however having done my work experience at a special needs school, I decided I would get too emotionally involved, and changed career paths, quite dramatically... 23 years of office work later, and unfortunately not being able to have my own children, I knew I wanted to get involved in doing something that some purpose.  I've previously been a volunteer for the National Autistic Society as a Befriender in my 20's, which was a wonderful life experience, and I also volunteered at a night shelter for Robes, the homeless charity.  When Covid hit, unfortunately I was unable to continue with the homeless charity, once we returned to "normal" life, I knew I needed to look for something where I could give back.  I found Community Links online and uploaded my details (which was very easy), I then looked a few positions that might suit my skills and attributes.  I applied for Magpie Dance, because I have been aware for many years of the great work they do for people with learning disabilities.  A few other charities reached out to me, but unfortunately I didn't think that my skills/time constraints would be suited. 

Magpie contacted me and I had a video call with them to discuss my background and what I was looking for.  Initially I didn't I would be able to give every Saturday to them, so I offered to help wherever I could, in the office giving my admin skills and helping out on rehearsals and show days.  I was asked to attend a Saturday session for the 3 slots they offer to the dancers just to see what Magpie was about, and it was magical.  I totally fell in love with everyone there.  When I came home and told all my loved ones about it, I lit up from the inside.  One of my friends commented, she'd never seen me so animated in the time she'd known me.  And thats when I made the decision that if it made me so happy, that's self care in itself and I would make the commitment the Dancers needed each week.  

I started with Magpie in May 22, and help out at the Junior sessions.  We developed our dance over the coming weeks, to build up to a finale show in July.  And what show it was!  The Dancers were incredible (as were the staff and the musicians), and as you can see from the smile on my face, it was probably one of the best days of my life. 

I often wonder if I'm selfish getting so much out of it, seeing as I'm meant to be the one giving as the volunteer.  I am equally as happy to see the Dancers as they are to see me every week.  Even as I type now, I have the biggest smile on my face thinking about it.  Magpie really is my happy place. 

Having a platform like Community Links Bromley, really helps people find the right match for volunteering posts, so am grateful that it exists!"

- Ronié