After more than three decades of rough sleeping, Aaron arrived at Quo Vadis Trust in December 2024. In less than a year, he has not only found a safe and stable place to call home — he has become one of QVT’s newest volunteers, showing up every week to put a smile on the faces of fellow clients.
Aaron’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and the quiet but profound transformation that happens when someone is given the right support at the right time. We sat down with him to find out more.
When did you first come to Quo Vadis Trust, and what was going on for you at that time?
I was a rough sleeper for three and a half decades — since 1991. I came to QVT on the 4th of December 2024.
How did you first hear about volunteering at QVT, and what made you consider getting involved?
I heard about volunteering from staff members during a group activity at Verdant Lane. It’s something I didn’t mind getting involved in because I have a lot of experience in a lot of areas that I believe may be helpful to others.
What have been the most positive aspects of volunteering, and have there been any challenges?
Thankfully there have been no challenges yet, because I believe every issue is resolved with giving your time and understanding. The positive aspect is knowing that the activities you’re doing for the clients — to join in — is putting a smile on somebody’s face who wouldn’t usually smile.
How has QVT supported you in your volunteering role?
QVT and the staff encouraged me to become a volunteer. It was something I wanted to do anyway, but I didn’t know where to go or who to contact. QVT showed me that I could do it within their project. From there, I did the first level training – food, hygiene, health and safety. I’m quite grateful for doing those courses. I’ve learned quite a lot from listening to the Client Development Manager and my Housing Officer.
What was life like for you before you started volunteering?
Before becoming a volunteer, I already took part in group activities at my scheme with QVT. But I felt like I could give more to the community. Now, after becoming a volunteer, I’m able to give more. Life’s more meaningful.
What does volunteering mean to you personally?
Volunteering to me mostly means that a person smiles. The smile that you put on their face because you had the time and opportunity to help them with whatever difficulties they face – and you try to help them get over those difficulties by giving time.
What changes have you noticed in yourself since becoming a volunteer?
Before I became a volunteer, I just dwelt on my own problems. It was through volunteering that I realised my problems aren’t so bad – and that my problems could actually help people. I’m now more confident than I was in the beginning. I’ve learned new skills, and since my health is poor, being a volunteer helps me take my mind off my health and puts it on other people. It’s also improved my interpersonal skills.
What would you say to others who are thinking about getting involved?
I always encourage other people to volunteer. One thing that was lacking is caring, bright volunteers and the time that people can offer. So, if you’re considering becoming a volunteer – please do.
How do you see volunteering fitting into your future hopes and goals?
I hope that in the future, by becoming a volunteer, I can progress to maybe working full time in the homeless sector. It helps me with getting an education into what I need to pursue. Hopefully, volunteering can open more doors for me.
A Community Built on Belonging
Aaron’s journey is a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when people feel safe, supported, and seen. After 33 years on the streets, he didn’t just find a home at QVT – he found purpose. His instinct to give back, to use his own experience to help others, speaks to the kind of community spirit that lies at the heart of everything we do.
At Quo Vadis Trust, we believe that recovery isn’t only about having a roof over your head. It’s about rediscovering confidence, connection, and a sense of contribution. Aaron is living proof of that.
If you’d like to find out more about our supported housing services or volunteering opportunities, please get in touch — we’d love to hear from you.