Gig Buddies
36-year-old Sarah from Lane Cove wanted to use some of her free time to volunteer.
“I first volunteered with Gig Buddies because I wanted to use my available time to create positive environments and experiences for others.”
The idea behind Gig Buddies is inclusion. Carol Smail, the CEO of Gig Buddies explains:
“Going out to see bands, clubbing, or seeing friends is part of everyday life for many people. If you have a learning disability you may need support to go along, this leaves many people excluded because support workers tend to finish work by 10pm.”
Gig Buddies pairs volunteers with people with learning disabilities and/or autism so they can participate in the full range of fun activities and events that Sydney has to offer. Volunteers receive training to support their buddy when attending events or activities together.
“We pair volunteers and participants based on interest so it’s fun for everyone involved. Gig Buddies also run group social events where participants and volunteers can hang out in larger groups.” Carol says.
When she started volunteering Sarah didn’t expect how much the experience would enrich her life.
“Volunteering has been so rewarding. Initially coming into the role, I was mostly focused on giving back to others, not realising at the time that the person I was going to be paired with would end up teaching me more than I may teach them.”
Sarah and Nalyn have now been official buddies for six years.
Gig Buddies
(Image) Nalyn and Sarah have been gig buddies for six years.
Sarah describes Nalyn as someone who is welcoming to everyone wherever she goes. While she is there to support Nalyn, through their friendship, Sarah has found herself becoming more confident in social situations.
“I thought I socialised easily, but I feel far more relaxed about going to events now, thanks to Nalyn’s beautiful social-butterfly personality. She’s one of those people who naturally makes everyone feel included. She constantly shows me that turning up to events doesn’t need to be stressful or scary.”
Volunteering has also helped Nalyn build greater independence, allowing her to enjoy activities and events with a friend rather than relying on family members or paid support workers. While Nalyn already had an active social life, her friendship with Sarah has created a different kind of connection that has enriched both of their lives.
Each month, the pair catch up for activities they both enjoy.
“We love to do a fun activity like bowling and LOVE a yummy lunch, burgers are a favourite, and there is always a lot of giggling.”
Their six years of adventures together have created countless cherished memories. One experience in particular stands out.
Their first outing together was a Gig Buddies group event, a silent disco at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Sarah had been looking forward to exploring the aquarium with Nalyn after meeting for a hot chocolate beforehand. However, shortly after arriving, Sarah turned away briefly to greet someone and Nalyn disappeared.
As Sarah wandered through the aquarium looking for her, she eventually reached the silent disco.
“Nalyn was there, headphones on, dancing with her group of friends having the best time ever. She then asked me where I had been and to hurry up and join in!”
Gig Buddies
(Image) Sarah and Nalyn at a silent disco
For Sarah, that moment perfectly captured Nalyn’s personality.
“This is definitely one of my favourite memories as it fully showcases Nalyn as the life of the party, socialite and dancer that she is.”
Sarah says the support she receives from the Gig Buddies team also makes the experience special. Regular events and a welcoming community help create opportunities for friendships to flourish.
“Nalyn is one of the happiest, most positive and selfless people I know.”
Gig Buddies
(Image) Sarah and Nalyn at a Christmas concert
What began as a volunteering opportunity has become a lasting friendship that continues to enrich both their lives.
“Volunteering with Gig Buddies has been a life-changing experience that I will treasure forever. I underestimated the impact it would have on me.”
The Gig Buddies volunteer befriending project promotes wellbeing through friendships, social inclusion and active community participation. Gig Buddies supports UN SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing and 10 Reduced Inequalities.
For more information about Gig Buddies visit their website.
United Nations