13/06/2026
π A Message to Our YOD Collective WhΔnau π
One of the things that makes the Young Onset Dementia Collective so special is the incredible people who stand alongside us.
Our volunteers are not simply extra pairs of hands. They are the friendly faces who share a laugh over a cup of tea, the people who patiently listen when words become difficult, the companions who walk beside us on outings, dance with us, create with us, encourage us, and help make every programme feel welcoming, safe and inclusive.
For many people living with younger onset dementia, volunteers become trusted friends. They help create the connections, confidence, purpose and sense of belonging that can so easily be lost after diagnosis. They remind us that we are still valued members of our communities and that we still have much to contribute.
We have been incredibly blessed with a wonderful group of volunteers who bring kindness, compassion, patience, humour and heart to everything they do. Quite simply, we could not do what we do without them.
As our programmes continue to grow, however, so too does our need for volunteer support. With our new Retro Lounge sessions beginning, our ongoing Fair Food volunteering, Six Pallets Working Group, Enrichment outings and future opportunities, we need more people willing to walk alongside our Collective.
The good news is that our communities are full of good people.
Many people would happily volunteer if they knew what was needed and understood that no special qualifications are requiredβjust kindness, empathy, compassion, a willingness to connect with others, and perhaps a good sense of humour.
So we're asking a favour of our YOD Collective whΔnau.
Please think about your wider family, friends, neighbours, workplaces, clubs, faith communities and social networks. Is there someone you know who might enjoy being part of what we do? Someone with a few hours to spare who would find meaning in making a genuine difference in the lives of people living with younger onset dementia?
If so, please share the attached volunteer information with them and encourage them to get in touch.
Together, we have built something truly special. With the support of more volunteers, we can continue creating opportunities for connection, purpose, participation and belonging for even more people living with younger onset dementia and their whΔnau.
Thank you for being part of our Collective. Thank you for believing in what we are building. And thank you to every volunteer who already stands beside us.
π Together, we are proving that a dementia diagnosis does not end a meaningful lifeβit simply means we need a community willing to walk the journey together. π
π§ [email protected]
π www.yod.co.nz
