From Shy Starter to Standout Bolunteer: Brayden’s Journey
A young volunteer who once kept to himself is now helping shape the grounds at Waipuna Hospice – and is encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones.
Brayden Collins, 21, has been named Volunteering Services’ Volunteer of the Month, recognised for his growth from a shy newcomer to a proactive team member, inspiring others to see volunteering as empowering.
Described by staff as “very keen” and “eager to help”, Brayden’s role has grown from simple gardening tasks to actively identifying work that needs doing across the hospice grounds.
Maintenance Manager Stephen Taylor says Brayden has developed a strong eye for detail.
“He walks around and sees different things and comes back and tells me what needs to be done,” Stephen says. “He’s a very keen young lad and works hard.”
Brayden, who has autism, says volunteering has helped him build confidence and spend more time outdoors.
“It’s been good for me. It’s got me outside of my comfort zone,” he says. “I’m more of an outdoorsy guy, so I like getting out and helping with what I can do.”
Over time, that confidence has translated into new skills – from recognising which plants need attention to using tools and maintaining large garden areas.
“There’s a lot of variety here,” Brayden says. “We just look at what needs doing and get into it.”
Support worker Paul Terry says Brayden’s attitude stands out.
“Brayden’s always ready to go,” he says. “I go to pick him up, and he’s waiting, keen to get started. That’s a really good sign.”
Paul says volunteering can be a valuable stepping stone for young people looking to build experience.
“Volunteering gives young people something real: skills, knowledge, and a sense of responsibility on their CV – and that can open doors,” says Paul.
Brayden has also taken part in community-facing roles, including pamphlet drops and fundraising collections, helping to raise around $1,000 at a recent event.
A year ago, staff say, that level of public interaction seemed unlikely.
“When he first came here, he was quite shy,” says Waipuna Hospice’s Volunteer Services Manager, Shelley Atkinson. “Now we just let him be, and he tells us what needs to be done. We’re very proud of him.”
Brayden hopes to continue volunteering for as long as he can, and has a simple message for other young people considering it.
“Just get out in the community and explore,” he encourages. “You never know where you might end up helping. It’s a great way to build confidence and find purpose.”
Brayden’s story comes amid both Hospice Awareness Week (11th-17th May) and Youth Week (18th-24th May). Waipuna Hospice is using the moment to highlight the role volunteers play in supporting its services.
Shelley says the organisation is currently seeking more help, especially for short-term roles during Hospice Awareness Week.
“We need volunteers for street collections, even just two hours,” she says. “It’s a great way to step into volunteering. You can bring friends or family, and it’s a really meaningful way to spend your time and make a difference.”
Beyond gardening, ongoing volunteer roles include hospice retail shops, depots, and community outreach programs, offering flexible options to fit different lifestyles and interests.
Hospice’s Marketing Manager, Pazia Moore, says community support remains vital.
“Even if you don’t volunteer, just saying thank you to our volunteers or giving what you can makes a difference,” Pazia says. “We can’t do what we do without the community.”
For Brayden, that community connection is already paying off.
“It makes me feel proud,” he says. “Getting out there and helping; that’s what it’s about.”
