A young volunteer who once kept to himself is now helping shape the grounds at Waipuna Hospice – and is encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones.

Brayden Collins, 21, has been named Volunteering Services’ Volunteer of the Month, recognised for his growth from a shy newcomer to a proactive team member, inspiring others to see volunteering as empowering.

Described by staff as “very keen” and “eager to help”, Collins’ role had grown from simple gardening tasks to actively identifying work that needs doing across the hospice grounds.

Waipuna Hospice maintenance manager Stephen Taylor said Collins had developed a strong eye for detail.

“He walks around and sees different things and comes back and tells me what needs to be done,” Taylor said. “He’s a very keen young lad and works hard.”

‘Good for me’ (sidehead)

Collins, who has autism, said volunteering had helped him build confidence and spend more time outdoors.

“It’s been good for me. It’s got me outside of my comfort zone,” he said. “I’m more of an outdoorsy guy, so I like getting out and helping with what I can do.”

Brayden Collins, gardening at Waipuna Hospice. Photo / Matthew Farrell / SociaLink

Over time, that confidence had translated into new skills – from recognising which plants need attention to using tools and maintaining large garden areas.

“There’s a lot of variety here,” Collins said. “We just look at what needs doing and get into it.”

Support worker Paul Terry said Collins’ attitude stood out.

“Brayden’s always ready to go,” he said. “I go to pick him up, and he’s waiting, keen to get started. That’s a really good sign.”

Valuable stepping stone (sidehead)

Terry said volunteering could be a valuable stepping stone for young people looking to build experience.

“Volunteering gives young people something real: skills, knowledge, and a sense of responsibility on their CV – and that can open doors,” Terry said.

Brayden has also taken part in community-facing roles, including pamphlet drops and fundraising collections, helping to raise about $1000 at a recent event.

A year ago, staff say, that level of public interaction seemed unlikely.

“When he first came here, he was quite shy,” said Waipuna Hospice volunteer services manager Shelley Atkinson. “Now we just let him be, and he tells us what needs to be done. We’re very proud of him.”

Collins hoped to continue volunteering for as long as he could, and had a simple message for other young people considering it.

“Just get out in the community and explore,” he said. “You never know where you might end up helping. It’s a great way to build confidence and find purpose.”

Collins’ story came amid Hospice Awareness Week this month from May 11-17 and Youth Week, May 18-24.

Atkinson said Waipuna Hospice was seeking more help.

“It’s a great way to step into volunteering. You can bring friends or family, and it’s a really meaningful way to spend your time and make a difference.”

Vital, proud (sidehead)

Beyond gardening, ongoing volunteer roles included hospice retail shops, depots, and community outreach programmes, offering flexible options to fit different lifestyles and interests.

Waipuna Hospice marketing manager Pazia Moore said community support remained vital.

“Even if you don’t volunteer, just saying thank you to our volunteers or giving what you can makes a difference,” Moore said.

“We can’t do what we do without the community.”

For Collins, that community connection was already paying off.

“It makes me feel proud,” he said. “Getting out there and helping – that’s what it’s about.”

To volunteer or if a group needs support, SociaLink’s Volunteering Services can help. Visit: www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.