Community Partner Spotlight: Elgin Close Resource Centre

Elgin Close Resource Centre has become one of TimeGivers' most valued community partners over the past year, helping create meaningful opportunities for young people and older adults to connect through intergenerational volunteering.

Managed by Funke, the centre provides a welcoming space for older adults to stay active, independent and connected. Located just a short walk from our office and close to several of our partner schools, it has become a regular destination for TimeGivers visits.

Since first meeting Funke, we have organised seven intergenerational sessions at the centre. From decorating flowerpots and planting seeds to making Christmas decorations and St Patrick's Day crafts, each visit has brought together students and residents through creativity, conversation and shared experiences.

Creating Meaningful Connections

Funke's passion for bringing generations together has been evident from the start.

When asked what made the centre want to get involved with TimeGivers, she explained:

"The elderly at the Centre enjoy interacting and participating in activities with young children."

These interactions have become something both students and residents look forward to, with relationships growing stronger through each visit.

The Impact of Intergenerational Volunteering

TimeGivers has helped connect local schools with the centre, creating opportunities for young people and older adults to learn from one another.

Funke shared:

"TimeGivers has supported the Centre by connecting the children from the local school through its intergenerational activities which is beneficial to both children and the elderly. They always look forward to the visits."

The energy and enthusiasm students bring often has a lasting impact on residents.

One centre member, Mary, reflected after a visit:

"Thank you so much for bringing the students today. I almost didn't come, and I didn't want to get out of bed this morning - but I'm so happy to be here. It is so lovely speaking to them, and they make my day so much brighter."

Favourite Memories

One of Funke's favourite activities was a flowerpot decorating session, where children and residents worked side-by-side creating colourful designs and getting to know one another.

"Watching the children and the residents decorating the pots and interacting together was incredibly rewarding. This shows how simple activities can build powerful connections between children and the elderly."

These moments remind us that meaningful community connections don't always require grand projects. Sometimes the most powerful impact comes from simply spending time together.

We are incredibly grateful to Funke and everyone at Elgin Close Resource Centre for welcoming our students so warmly and helping create experiences that leave a lasting impression on young people and residents alike.

This story was originally featured in our April 2025 newsletter. Read the full newsletter to discover more from this month’s highlights.

TimeGivers Community Partner Spotlight: Elgin Close Resource Centre | April 2025