Dudson Deb - Behind The Counter
When Deb joined VAST earlier this year, she was looking for a way to reconnect with her community. She was rebuilding her confidence after a challenging time, searching for an opportunity to meaningfully contribute. With a long history of caring and supporting those around her, volunteering seemed like the ideal fit.
After speaking with Emma Lymer, Project Support Officer at VAST, Deb explored a range of local opportunities before finding one that resonated: an opportunity directly with VAST in the the Dudson Centre Café. Emma accompanied Deb on her first visit to the café to meet the staff and get a sense of how volunteering might look for her.
“From when she started, up to now - she has grown a lot. What she brings to the café is really essential and she's such a big asset. You can't find another person to do what she does!”
From her very first shift, Deb made strong impression on the wider Dudson Centre family. Deb’s compassion, reliability, and willingness to help have made her an integral part of the café’s day-to-day running. The café has offered a chance for Deb to meet others in a community-led space, supporting both centre staff and visitors through her kindness and quiet dedication. She’s now a familiar face to both regulars and her fellow volunteers!
Deb volunteers alongside Karen, the café’s cook, and café assistant/caretaker Roger for the historical Dudson Centre. The team describe her as someone who is dedicated and takes initiative with her responsibilities.
It was clear from the start that the café would be an ideal match. Deb’s helpful nature can resonate farther in when amplified into community action, transforming an unassuming cafe into a hub for support.
In creating welcoming community spaces like ours, we can provide lifelines for individuals, families and non-profits, creating physical space for accessing direct support. By understanding volunteers’ strengths and applying them, the community can benefit from their unique contributions.
After meeting the team, Deb decided to take her first step and join us as a volunteer!
“I don’t have to mention anything that needs to be done, Deb has already done it. She’s such a help to all of us!”
Whether she’s serving customers, preparing drinks, or helping keep the café spotless, Deb brings energy and enthusiasm to each task. Her contributions have helped the team run smoothly and created a warm, welcoming space for visitors to enjoy.
More than anything, Deb says she values the friendships and sense of belonging that volunteering has brought her. Being part of the café team has given her new connections and daily purpose, something she now looks forward to each week.
“It’s so nice for Emma and the team at VAST and The Dudson Centre to be part of my journey. I know I don’t have to come every day, but every morning I get up and want to come and help.”
Deb’s journey has given her the opportunity to give back, meet new people, and discover new strengths. For many, volunteering is a route to connection through meaningful action in their community. At the Dudson Centre, volunteers like Deb create a safe and inclusive space for visitors to relax.
At VAST, we believe volunteering should be empowering. A mutual exchange where volunteers can have impact while gaining meaningful experiences for themselves. Deb’s journey shows how, with the right opportunity and support, volunteering can open doors, build confidence, and strengthen community ties.
Emma, who supported Deb into her volunteering role, says it’s been wonderful to watch her flourish!
“I’m so very proud of Deb and all that she continues to achieve, I know it wasn’t easy for her to take those first few steps. Deb is kind with such a big heart, my hope is that Deb one day recognises this too!”
We’re delighted to see how much Deb has achieved in her time at the Dudson Café, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow and inspire others through her commitment and kindness.
Interested in volunteering?
Looking for your next opportunity? Check out the notice board and discover your next volunteering opportunity!