Tom Robinson
Tom Robinson, a social work student and Orange Sky volunteer, shares insights on community service, the power of human connection, and personal growth.
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"Orange Sky is a space holder for me. For people that often don't feel like it. People that don't feel like they're seen. People that need to have a connection."
"One of the perceptions that's changed is just how easy it is for you to find yourself in a situation where you need help. You know, some people are like one or two paychecks away from needing, needing a hand, needing someone to help wash their clothes."
"Having lived experience for any sort of community work is a superpower. People, you know, you don't want to be divulging, you know, straight off the rip, but having an understanding of what somebody's going through is and is incredibly powerful because you know what they need, you know how to hold space for them, and how to be a supportive person."
"Orange Sky is a space holder for me. For people that often don't feel like it. People that don't feel like they're seen. People that need to have a connection."
"From Corporate to Community: Tom Robinson's Journey with Orange Sky"
In the bustling coastal town of Newcastle, Tom Robinson's story unfolds as a powerful testament to the transformative power of community service and human connection. At 39, Tom's journey from a corporate career to studying social work and volunteering with Orange Sky offers profound insights into the value of giving back and the unexpected rewards of stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Tom's path to Orange Sky began with a simple suggestion from his mother and a desire to fill his spare time meaningfully. "I was looking for a charity to work for and give some time for and my mum said she'd heard of Orange Sky," Tom recalls. This initial curiosity has blossomed into a deep commitment, with Tom now serving as a team leader for the Thursday shift.
For Tom, the transition from corporate life to social work and volunteering represents a quest for fulfillment. "I've worked corporate for the majority of my life... but ultimately it wasn't kind of filling up that cup of helping people and being a productive member of society," he explains. This shift in focus highlights a growing trend of individuals seeking more meaningful ways to contribute to their communities.
Tom's experience with Orange Sky has profoundly impacted his understanding of community needs and the power of human connection. He describes Orange Sky as "a space holder" and "a bastion of connection" for people who often feel unseen or disconnected. "A lot of people live by themselves and they don't get a lot of outward free time," Tom notes, emphasizing the importance of the social interactions that Orange Sky facilitates.
One of the most striking aspects of Tom's experience is his evolving perception of homelessness and vulnerability. "One of the perceptions that's changed is just how easy it is for you to find yourself in a situation where you need help," he reflects. This realization underscores the importance of empathy and non-judgmental support in community service.
As a social work student, Tom recognizes the invaluable learning experience that volunteering provides. He sees the power of lived experience in community work, describing it as a "superpower" that allows volunteers to better understand and support those they serve. This perspective highlights the reciprocal nature of volunteering, where both the volunteer and the person being served benefit from the interaction.
Tom's insights into the mental health benefits of volunteering are particularly poignant. "It's really good for my mental health," he shares. "You know, I get like anxiety, depression and stuff. And this helps to serve a purpose." This candid acknowledgment of personal struggles and the therapeutic value of service speaks to the holistic benefits of community engagement.
The interview also touches on broader societal issues, such as the impact of technology on human connection and the challenges of maintaining focus in a distracted world. Tom's reflections on these topics demonstrate the depth of thought that volunteering can inspire, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of social issues.
As Tom continues his journey with Orange Sky and his studies in social work, his story serves as an inspiration for others considering a shift towards more meaningful community engagement. His experience demonstrates that volunteering is not just about giving time, but about building connections, gaining new perspectives, and finding personal fulfillment through service to others.
Tom Robinson's story with Orange Sky is more than just a tale of volunteerism; it's a narrative of personal transformation, community building, and the profound impact that simple acts of kindness and connection can have on both individuals and society as a whole.
