Meet Mary

Mary is a force of nature who has been volunteering with our FareShare Tayside & Fife for several years.

As well as being committed to social justice and equity Mary has a special interest in the supporting elderly members of our community who face isolation and loneliness. Mary has worked closely with NHS Tayside’s Community Nurses to identify those at risk from social isolation and the support their mental wellbeing. She makes food packages from surplus food donated by our partners via FareShare UK and distributes this along with information and advice as to how to minimise social isolation. The link to Community Nursing is vital as they are often the only regular visitor that may of the recipients have.

Mary demonstrates that a simple idea can have a major impact not only on individuals but also on an issue that blights our community. Mary proves that volunteer makes a difference and with many thousands you can see the impact volunteering makes. We're extremely fortunate at Transform Community Development that so many people volunteer for us and that there are so many volunteering opportunities.

With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. The right match can help you to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.

Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness.