Vicky Stubbins began volunteering with Foresters in the U.K. the summer after her family lost their 10-year old son, Rohan, to a rare genetic illness. With a new understanding of how difficult the grieving process can be, Vicky decided to give back to her local community by organizing a community volunteer activity in support of young carers and bereaved children’s groups in three local schools. With the help of other eager Foresters members, they created Christmas care packages. Providing care packages to bereaved children in need was rewarding, and Vicky felt humbled to be able to give back to her community in honor of her son. “The bags didn’t just provide the children with support,” she said. “They also helped the adults in their lives, because the bags were designed to allow children to undertake activities that they could do either alone or with an adult.”

Vicky had hosted previous volunteer activities and was already familiar with the satisfaction that making a difference through volunteerism brings. “We can’t necessarily afford to fund these activities from our own pockets,” she said, pointing out that Foresters community volunteer grants make that part of the process possible. “What we can do is spare some time.” The joy the care packages brought was felt by teachers, children, parents and others in Vicky’s community. It was an incredible opportunity to meet bereaved children’s needs and raise awareness that local schools are strengthened through community volunteerism.

Simple acts of caring inspired Vicky to organize hands-on opportunities that allowed her and fellow Foresters families to do more together for the well-being of their community.

At Foresters, members enjoy a range of unique benefits including the opportunity to give back through community initiatives. Click here to learn how Foresters help members achieve their financial goals while making a difference in the community.