The First Light community is recognised for its compassion, understanding, and inclusivity. While our programs and events offer widowed people opportunities for connection and healing, it’s our volunteers who bring the true heart to everything we do.
From 19–25 May 2025, Australia celebrates National Volunteer Week, the country’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” recognises the power of volunteering to bring people together, create lasting relationships, and foster belonging in our communities.
This week, as we reflect on the contributions of our volunteers, we had a chat to one of our valued volunteers Sandy Weldon, whose journey from seeking support to offering it beautifully represents what First Light is all about.
Sandy first connected with First Light in 2022, during a time of deep grief following the loss of her husband, Stephen. Through local catch ups and her first Camp Widow experience, Sandy found something invaluable: understanding, strength, and a community that truly “got it.”
“First Light helped me to find myself,” Sandy said.
“The catch ups and my first camp in 2022, gave me strength, knowledge and confidence, as well as a supportive and understanding Widowed Community, which enabled me to understand my grief journey and to look to a more positive future without my Stephen.
“I then felt that I wanted to help others to see the light, to move from that all-consuming darkness that is the grief of losing your person.”
In 2023, Sandy began volunteering — starting with our Annual Golf Day, then stepping into a Catch Up Host role in 2024. She went on to become a Camp Champion at Camp Widow Brisbane, and most recently supported our Melbourne Widowed Support Luncheon in 2025.
Volunteers make First Light shine
First Light would not exist without the time, energy, and care of our volunteers. From planning events to hosting catch ups and supporting new community members, volunteers are the bridge that connects people to the healing power of shared experience.
Sandy says it best:
“By being a volunteer, I have been able to see the positive impact the programs have on people. I have become more involved in the First Light community and have found my tribe: people who truly understand and it is because of this that I want to help others to become part of this supportive, caring, compassionate community that is First Light.
“Being a First Light volunteer is truly a privilege and is personally rewarding. The friendships and community connections I have made will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Beyond her volunteer roles, Sandy is also passionate about creating a more open conversation around widowhood in the wider community — advocating for greater understanding and support for those who’ve lost a partner.
Thank you to our volunteer community
Sandy’s story is just one of many, and each volunteer brings something unique and powerful to the First Light family. Whether you’re behind the scenes, sharing your story, or welcoming someone new — your contribution matters deeply.
To all our volunteers: thank you. Your generosity, empathy and commitment help make First Light a place where widowed people feel seen, supported, and never alone.
If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, we encourage you to take that step.
Volunteering isn’t just about helping others — it’s about finding community, purpose, and healing in return.
