Natalya's Story

I suppose you could say I was called to do it! I just had such a strong overwhelming sense of positivity that I thought I could put to work. I’m so glad I went along with my heart as I really enjoy Buz Tots and it’s a wonderful way for me to get involved with the community too and to promote the church and make use of the wonderful space and facilities we have!

I decided to start volunteering as I remember how I myself depended on toddler groups back when my own children were small, I know how important and meaningful it is to have a conversation with other parents and to just get out of the house and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of housework!

Getting out and mixing can really make a difference! I wanted to provide that for our community through the wonderful Ballynahinch Methodist Church! I feel like God guided me along my way to do good and to be a friendly face to all who come through the doors of BUZ Tots.

I must say I have enjoyed it all so far but my favourite part of it is welcoming people into the church and to see how much the children enjoy their time in the toddler group, I am very happy and lucky to have such wonderful ladies who volunteer along with me to bring the best of Buz Tots to our community. I have experienced many benefits from starting this group, I’d say in a way it brings me closer to God knowing he guided me through this and also I’ve been able to have a purpose within the community as I no longer work so I am so happy that I volunteer as it gives me purpose and a passion to do good for my community through our safe space Buz Tots.

From I’ve started volunteering I have been blessed to make so many new friends with the ladies who help me, for example we all work together to make sure the children are well fed and cared for it makes me happy that we’ve come together through God to set up this wonderful group.

Of course, when starting something new we face challenges for example worrying will people show up, will all this work be for nothing? or the old favourite I’m not sure anymore! I’ve overcome these challenges by placing my worries In Gods hands knowing he’ll have the answers and luckily he did and we’re up and running and loving it!

I would highly recommend volunteering! It brings such joy to the heart knowing you’ve made a difference to someone’s day by simply welcoming them into the church and taking time with each parent/toddler who have come along. It’s something I’m glad I’ve done as it feels so right. For anyone thinking of volunteering I’d say “do it, life needs more people to help and to care” it does my heart and soul the world of good knowing that our toddler group is somewhere that people enjoy coming to and keep coming back to us.

This has been a truly remarkable experience for me and it’s brought me out of my comfort zone by serving my local community on a Tuesday morning. I feel a sense of purpose once again! I am so thankful for Buz Tots and I am very excited to watch it grow!