The Power of Connection
A guest article from Stuart C.
Today’s guest article champions the value of volunteers and the impact that connecting communities can have. If you’d like to share your story and add to the momentum, please email hello@runningforresilience.com
But first…
In case you missed the second episode of the R4R Podcast, you can catch it on YouTube above or on Spotify below. In the episode, Benny A sits down with R4R legend, Rich Peil.
And before we get started…
Last week we heard from the Crusade for Connor fellas, and this weekend you can come along to The Dock, Kingston Foreshore, at 10am to support them!
The Power of Connection:
Celebrating Volunteers and Our R4R Community
A guest article from Stuart C.
As we approach National Volunteer Week (19-25 May), it's a brilliant time to reflect on the incredible power of giving back.
This year's theme is "Connecting Communities," which couldn't be more fitting for us here at Run for Resilience (R4R). National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteers, a chance to acknowledge the millions of people who dedicate their time to strengthening our communities, fostering engagement, and creating a real sense of belonging. It's about recognising the profound impact of those who give their time to help others and build those vital connections.
My Journey of Giving Back
Volunteering has long been a cornerstone of my life, bringing immense joy and perspective. For over eight years, I've been privileged to volunteer with Camp Quality. Witnessing the incredible courage and spirit of children facing cancer, and being able to contribute to moments of fun and respite for them and their families, is truly humbling.
My connection to supporting those impacted by cancer extends to my five years with Canteen. This incredible organisation provides crucial support to young people when cancer dramatically disrupts their lives, whether it's their own diagnosis or that of a loved one. The community and understanding Canteen builds are so important.
More recently, I’ve been thrilled to join Rise Above, a local not-for-profit doing amazing work to support families in the Canberra region affected by cancer.
To be fully present for these organisations, I use my annual Volunteer Leave day provided by my employer, and also dedicate a good portion of my Annual Leave to participate in camps, events, and various programs. The sense of fulfilment and the lessons learned are truly immeasurable.
Finding My Stride: My Running Journey with R4R
Now, let's talk running! For over a year, friends had been raving about R4R, but the idea of being a "runner" felt completely alien to me – I’d genuinely never enjoyed it. However, last December, I decided it was time for a change. My first attempt on a crisp Monday morning was a reality check; I managed 2.5km before I was walking, wondering what I’d gotten myself into.
But something clicked.
That following Friday, I found a new gear, pushed past that 2.5km mental block, and completed a full 5km. It was a breakthrough! Since then, I’ve been steadily improving and haven’t looked back. The progress has been so rewarding.
The R4R Difference: More Than Just a Run
Joining R4R in early December coincided with a period of significant personal challenges. Life threw some major curveballs, and I found myself in an extreme downward spiral. I took steps to get professional help, engaging with my GP for a Mental Health Plan, starting therapy, and accessing urgent support through my Employee Assistance Program as the holiday season approached. Honestly, I was navigating one of the lowest points in my life coming into the New Year.
Through all of this, the one unwavering constant, the one thing I could count on, was turning up to R4R runs.
The group, and the wonderful people within it, probably had no idea just how instrumental those runs were. Having company and a supportive, welcoming environment, especially during the Christmas Day run and the New Year's Eve run – times I otherwise would have spent alone – was an absolute lifeline. It was a beacon of connection when I needed it most.
Slowly but surely, through R4R, I've started to build connections with so many amazing, life-loving people. It’s a community in the truest sense of the word.
My Chance to Make an Even Bigger Impact: City2Surf for Canteen!
This year, my journey with Canteen has taken an exciting new turn – they’ve selected me as a "Charity Superstar" for the iconic City2Surf in Sydney! I’m so honoured and motivated to be lacing up my runners to raise vital funds for young people impacted by cancer.
In the spirit of National Volunteer Week and this incredible opportunity, I’m pushing my fundraising efforts further. I initially aimed for $500 and, thanks to some wonderful early support, have already raised $267. Now, I’m setting my sights higher, aiming to reach $1000!
Every single dollar makes a real difference to Canteen’s ability to offer essential services like counselling, peer support programs, and much-needed recreational activities. If you feel inspired to contribute and help me reach this goal, any donation, big or small, would be incredible.
You can support my Canteen City2Surf fundraising here
A Heartfelt Thank You to R4R and Its Volunteers
Finally, and most importantly, I want to extend a massive, heartfelt thank you to Run for Resilience. To everyone who shows up, who encourages, who shares a smile or a story. And especially, a huge thank you to the volunteers who pour so much of their time, energy, and passion into making R4R the incredible community it is.
R4R has made an immeasurable difference in my life over the past few months. I’ve benefited hugely not just from the improvements in my fitness, but from the amazing people I’ve met and the sense of belonging.
Thank you, R4R. Thank you to our volunteers. You truly are "Connecting Communities."
Could You Be a Volunteer?
Inspired by the spirit of National Volunteer Week and the stories of connection? There are countless organisations out there, big and small, doing incredible work that relies on the generosity of volunteers. If you've ever thought about giving your time, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the possibilities. Whether it's an hour a week or a one-off event, your contribution can make a world of difference to others and, as I’ve found, bring immense fulfilment to your own life too. Why not look into local opportunities this week?
Keep running, keep supporting, and let’s celebrate the power of connection!