Contacts

78 Yorkshire Street, OL16 1JU

info@caringandsharingrochdale.org

 07944238892

high-angle-young-people-church-praying
CharityDonationHealthLifestylemental healthPoverty

Live Better with Philanthropy: Achieving Mental and Emotional Balance through Giving

Let’s get a bit scientific—have you ever heard of the term “symbiosis”?

In biology, symbiosis refers to a close, long-term relationship between different species where one or both parties benefit, and neither is harmed.

Now, let’s step out of the lecture hall for a moment and consider this: Have you ever felt that warm, fulfilling rush after helping an elderly person cross the road, giving a heartfelt compliment, or offering a small act of kindness?

If yes, then you’ve already tasted the magic we’re about to explore!

This article will uncover four powerful ways philanthropy can help you achieve mental and emotional balance.

1. Gratitude and Perspective

Philanthropy encourages you to shift focus from your challenges to the needs of others. This perspective helps cultivate gratitude as you begin to appreciate your own life more deeply. By witnessing the struggles and resilience of others, you’ll often realize that your problems may be smaller than they seem—or just a different piece of the iceberg.

2. Boosted Self-Esteem and Confidence

Ever noticed how empowering it feels to make a difference? Helping others, even in small ways, can remind you of your strengths and reveal new abilities. It’s like discovering your inner superhero—you don’t need a cape to save someone’s day!

Volunteering or supporting a cause builds your sense of purpose and worth, leaving you with a renewed confidence that ripples into every aspect of your life.

3. Social Connection and Community Development

Philanthropy connects people. By volunteering or supporting causes, you engage with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating bonds that transcend cultures and break social barriers. These interactions not only enrich your life but also foster a sense of belonging and strengthen community ties.

4. Forgiveness and Emotional Release

Giving to others can open your heart in unexpected ways. Acts of kindness often nurture empathy, which can help you release grudges, let go of past hurts, and embrace forgiveness. By focusing on uplifting others, you may find yourself shedding the emotional weights you’ve been carrying.

Conclusion

While philanthropy is often seen as selfless, it’s also deeply transformative for the giver. By embracing philanthropy, you can nurture gratitude, boost your confidence, build social connections, and experience emotional healing.

Start small, and let your heart lead the way—you’ll soon discover that giving is as much a gift to yourself as it is to others.

Have you experienced the positive impacts of philanthropy? We’d love to hear your story—share it with us and inspire someone today!, it can still be a fulfilling and transformative journey—one that benefits both the giver and the receiver.

Volunteer
AwardsCharity

Volunteering’s Dark Side: Fatigue, Undervaluation, and Neglect

Volunteering is a vital arm of charity, often celebrated as a noteworthy achievement. It has even become a key criterion for many employers when evaluating potential candidates for various positions.

However, while the benefits of volunteering are numerous, it’s easy to overlook its hidden challenges. Not everything that glitters is gold—sometimes, it’s like biting into a strawberry that’s not as sweet as it looks.

In some cases, organizations fail to uphold their commitments, leaving volunteers feeling let down. This article takes a deep dive into the less-discussed realities of volunteering: fatigue, undervaluation, and neglect, all from a volunteer’s point of view (POV).

1. The Energy Drain: When Volunteering Leads to Fatigue

While giving your time and energy to a cause can be deeply fulfilling, it can also be physically and emotionally draining. Volunteers often work in environments that demand significant emotional labor, such as assisting vulnerable populations or tackling devastating situations.

Overcommitting to a cause without establishing clear boundaries or practicing self-care can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and emotional exhaustion. For many, the drive to help others is so strong that they neglect their own needs, ultimately diminishing their capacity to serve effectively.

2. Feeling Undervalued: The Thin Line Between Service and Exploitation

Volunteering is a selfless act, but that doesn’t mean volunteers should feel unappreciated. Unfortunately, some organizations fail to provide the resources, structure, or support needed for volunteers to thrive.

This lack of recognition or adequate working conditions can leave volunteers feeling frustrated, undervalued, and inefficient. When their contributions are overlooked, volunteers may question their purpose, diminishing their motivation and ability to create meaningful impact.

3. Neglect and Isolation: When Volunteering Feels Unwelcoming

An inclusive and welcoming environment is critical for any organization, but unfortunately, some fall short. In organizations lacking diversity, individuals from minority groups can feel isolated or even neglected.

Imagine being part of a team where everyone else shares a similar cultural background and subtly (or overtly) excludes you. This lack of belonging can erode confidence, making volunteers feel unwelcome and questioning their role within the organization.

Navigating the Challenges

Volunteering, despite its challenges, remains a powerful way to contribute to the community and build personal growth. Yet, these realities—fatigue, undervaluation, and neglect—shouldn’t be ignored.

To create a positive and sustainable volunteering experience:

  • Do your homework: Research organizations thoroughly to understand their culture, policies, and support systems.
  • Communicate openly: Share your boundaries, needs, and expectations with the organization to ensure mutual understanding.
  • Seek training: Advocate for proper training and resources to prepare for your role effectively.
  • Find common ground: Look for shared interests with your colleagues, even in diverse teams, to foster connections and build camaraderie.

Volunteering may have its rough patches, but with thoughtful preparation and communication, it can still be a fulfilling and transformative journey—one that benefits both the giver and the receiver.

KAVS 1
AwardsCharity

Caring and Sharing Rochdale Shines Bright: King’s Award for Voluntary Service

We are thrilled to announce that Caring and Sharing, Rochdale (CAS Rochdale) has been honored with the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service—the highest accolade a voluntary organization can receive in the UK!

Previously known as the Queen’s Award, this esteemed recognition is awarded annually on King Charles III’s birthday to celebrate the remarkable contributions of charitable organizations to community development.

This year, CAS Rochdale proudly joins 281 other recipients, a testament to the power of dedicated service and our collective commitment to creating meaningful change.

A Tribute to Our Volunteers

This award is more than just an honor—it is a celebration of our incredible volunteers, both past and present, who have been the heartbeat of our organization. Their unwavering dedication, compassion, and hard work have made it possible for us to reach milestones we once only dreamed of.

Through their tireless efforts, we continue to make a difference, and this recognition is proof that every volunteer’s contribution matters profoundly.

Breaking Barriers and Building Impact

The King’s Award is not just about prestige; it is a reflection of the lasting impact volunteers have on communities. At CAS Rochdale, our volunteers have helped build bridges of hope, support, and resilience. They’ve brought smiles to faces, lifted spirits, and empowered individuals to rise above challenges. As noted by Mama Health and Poverty Partnership:
“This award is the highest award any voluntary group can get. Well done, Nicky T. Olawoye Iginla, and your amazing team! A well-deserved award!

This acknowledgment affirms that we are leaping beyond borders, touching lives, and inspiring a legacy of service.

Gratitude to Our Partners and Community

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible partners, who have stood with us every step of the way, amplifying our vision and mission.

To every individual and community member we’ve had the privilege to serve—you are the true essence of our existence. Your stories fuel our passion, and your resilience inspires us to keep pushing forward.

Looking Ahead

While this award marks a significant milestone, it is also a call to action to continue the work that matters most—empowering individuals, fostering inclusivity, and creating lasting change. Together, with our volunteers, partners, and supporters, we are excited to embark on new journeys of service and compassion.

Let’s keep shining together!

freepik__candid-image-photography-natural-textures-highly-r__18098
CharityDonationLifestylemindset

Vintage Yet Affordable Hacks for Charity

Charity. Charity.
A timeless act of giving that bridges hearts across centuries.

While charity has evolved over the ages, adapting to the needs of different eras, its essence remains unchanged: true empathy—not just stepping into someone’s shoes, but walking miles in them.

From the grand gestures of Pharaohs building temples and hospitals around 2613–2181 BCE to modern-day campaigns, acts of charity have stood as beacons of hope. While constructing monumental structures may be beyond reach for most, there are plenty of vintage-inspired, yet affordable, ways to make a difference today.

Here are some classic, meaningful, and budget-friendly ideas for giving back this season:

1. Cloth and Shoe Drives

Are you itching for a wardrobe refresh but unsure what to do with your gently used clothes or shoes?
Why not pass them on to those in need? This timeless initiative breathes life into vintage charity efforts, offering practical help to the less fortunate. You can organize a personal giveaway, or team up with organizations like Caring and Sharing Rochdale for a broader impact.

A simple yet powerful way to give—this practice brings nostalgia and goodwill together, reminding us of the power of sharing what we have.

2. Food Drives

Food donation has deep historical roots, dating back to medieval Europe when churches and monasteries shared provisions with the poor. To this day, food drives remain an enduring tradition—because as long as humans exist, hunger exists. Whether it’s canned goods, fresh produce, or homemade treats, donating food is a universally appreciated act of kindness.

Rally your friends, family, or community for a local food drive to share the love this season.

3. Knitting and Crocheting Circles

Want to make a tangible, heartfelt impact while indulging in a creative hobby? Look no further than knitting or crocheting. This vintage tradition gained momentum in 19th-century England, where people created items to support soldiers during wartime. Why not revive the magic? Gather friends who share your passion, and develop blankets for nursing homes, scarves for shelters, or tiny booties for newborns.

Every loop of yarn you weave not only warms someone physically but also emotionally. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond over a shared vision of kindness.

4. Antique Auctions

Do you love the thrill of discovery? Tap into your inner treasure hunter by collecting unique antiques or vintage art pieces to auction for charity. Proceeds from these sales can support causes close to your heart. And if collecting isn’t your thing, you can still participate as a buyer. By purchasing items from charity auctions, you’re contributing to change while giving timeless treasures a new home. This practice has historical roots dating back to the 17th century, combining adventure, art, and altruism in one exciting package.

5. Community Clean-Ups

This is where charity meets environmental stewardship. Volunteering for community clean-ups not only revitalizes public spaces but also fosters a sense of belonging among participants.

This initiative dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where volunteers worked together to maintain city cleanliness. It re-emerged in 19th-century America as part of the growing environmental safety movement. Today, it’s an excellent way to connect with your community while protecting the planet.

Charity Through the Ages: Timeless Love, Modern Action

Charity transcends time, proving that the act of giving is as relevant now as it was centuries ago. Whether it’s donating clothes, sharing food, creating handmade items, auctioning treasures, or cleaning up your environment, there’s a vintage-inspired way for everyone to give back. This season, why not embrace one of these time-tested ideas?
Let’s celebrate the spirit of charity—bridging the past and present to create a kinder, brighter future for all.

Self-Care Through Service: How Helping Others Can Transform Your Wellbeing
CharityHealthLifestylemental healthmindset

Self-Care Through Service: How Helping Others Can Transform Your Wellbeing

Self-care might bring to mind things like spa days, cozy reading nooks, or morning yoga. But there’s another approach—one that’s deeply fulfilling and powerful yet often overlooked. It’s the idea that by giving, we receive; that by helping others, we uplift ourselves. Service as self-care is not only real but scientifically proven to boost mental and physical health. This article will explore why and how lending a helping hand can recharge your soul, improve your mental health, and even enhance your life’s purpose.

1. A Different Kind of Self-Care: The “Helper’s High”

Have you ever felt an unexpected burst of happiness after helping someone? That’s the “helper’s high,” a real, scientifically-backed phenomenon. When you help others, your brain releases endorphins and oxytocin—hormones that promote happiness and connection. It’s a rush similar to what athletes experience, but you don’t need to break a sweat to feel it. Science shows that these feel-good hormones also reduce stress and can even improve your heart health. So, instead of just a momentary boost, giving can help regulate your body’s response to stress over time, leading to a more relaxed, grounded way of life.

2. Helping Builds Emotional Resilience

We all face struggles, big and small, that test our resilience. Acts of service can offer a surprising way to strengthen our emotional endurance. Shifting the focus from ourselves to someone in need creates a mindset shift. Suddenly, our worries might seem a little smaller, and we find new energy to face our own problems. Helping others also reminds us of our ability to make a difference, reinforcing our sense of self-worth and capability. By nurturing this strength, we become more resilient in the face of adversity and more capable of handling life’s unexpected challenges.

3. The Healing Power of Human Connection

Loneliness is a quiet epidemic today, but connection through service can be a powerful antidote. Whether it’s working in a soup kitchen, volunteering at a hospital, or simply spending time with someone in need, these acts remind us of our shared humanity. We’re wired for connection, and service is one of the most genuine ways to build it. By connecting with others through acts of kindness, you open yourself to empathy, compassion, and understanding. Studies show that social interactions through volunteering can improve mental health and increase happiness. These shared experiences remind us we’re not alone and help us feel more connected to the world around us.

4. Finding Gratitude in Giving

When you help others, you often gain a new perspective on your own life. Volunteering or engaging in charity can shift our focus away from what we lack to what we already have. This natural feeling of gratitude that comes from helping others is one of the most powerful ways to nurture a positive mindset. Gratitude has been linked to improved mental and physical health, increased happiness, and reduced stress. By stepping into others’ shoes, we learn to appreciate our own lives more fully. Service gives us a chance to practice gratitude in real life, shifting our outlook and making us more content.

5. Building Self-Worth Through Service

Seeing the impact of our actions on someone else can be transformative. There’s a quiet, fulfilling pride in knowing that you made someone’s day a bit brighter. Every small act of kindness, from comforting a friend to volunteering at a local shelter, shows us that we matter and can make a difference. This naturally builds self-worth. This kind of confidence isn’t tied to external achievements but to a sense of purpose that’s stable, enduring, and deeply satisfying. By focusing on others, we learn more about ourselves, building a stronger foundation of self-esteem.

6. Integrating Service Into Your Self-Care Routine

If you’re wondering how to make service a regular part of your life, it can start with small, everyday actions. Here’s how to make it work for you:

Reflect and Acknowledge: After an act of kindness, take a moment to reflect on how it made you feel. This reflection will help you realize the positive impact that service can have on your own life.

Start Small: Simple acts like holding the door for someone, listening to a friend, or complimenting a stranger go a long way.

Volunteer Your Skills: Think of the skills you have that others might need. Are you good at tutoring, baking, or organizing events? Find opportunities that allow you to contribute in a meaningful way.

7. Give Without Expectation

A charitable heart gives freely and doesn’t expect anything in return. This form of selfless giving, known as altruism, brings a unique kind of joy—one that doesn’t rely on recognition or rewards. Challenge yourself to perform random acts of kindness anonymously. For instance, you could donate to a cause without mentioning your name, or you could surprise a neighbor by shoveling their driveway after a snowfall. By giving without expectation, we cultivate humility and find fulfillment in the simple act of kindness itself, which reinforces a sincere desire to help.

Conclusion

Self-care isn’t just about focusing inward; it can also mean opening up to others. Acts of service help us rediscover our own resilience, reinforce our sense of purpose, and find happiness in ways we never expected. By extending a helping hand, we not only uplift others but also experience healing ourselves. So, next time you think about self-care, consider how giving can recharge your spirit, build connections, and create a more compassionate world—one small act at a time.