Value in Volunteering - Brendan Ashton

Words and photo by Angela Clark

A well known quote by Saint Francis of Assisi says “for it is in giving that we receive.’’

That has certainly been the philosophy of Brendan Ashton from Dalmuir who has been volunteering his time for the past 47 years.

His thoughts of others began as a small child back in the early 1960’s.

His parents brought him and his siblings up to help others whenever they could, especially when times were tough.

They were encouraged to help neighbours with shopping or odd jobs that would make life easier.

Brendan said: “Helping is just a natural thing for me to do. It gives me a great deal of satisfaction.

“The first organisation I volunteered with was the Royal Air Force reserves. I was helping teenagers make choices in their lives.

“It’s great when I bump into these young people I helped 30 or 40 years ago, who still recognise me and they stop to chat. And they have turned into very good citizens.”

Since then Brendan continues his life journey of helping others as a volunteer in St Stephen’s Chapel in Dalmuir, a role he has held for 26 years.

He has helped run youth groups in the Church Hall and volunteered with youth trips to Canada and Germany.

He is always fundraising to keep the hall in good condition and helps Father Martin with preparations for mass each week.

He added: “Volunteering fills me with happiness and contentment. It also keeps me busy, especially during these difficult times.”