As we look ahead to St John’s Day on 24 June, we are highlighting voices from across the St John family that reflect the dedication and impact of volunteers serving their communities every day. This period of reflection recognises the dedicated St John volunteers worldwide and the vital role they play in delivering care, responding to emergencies, and strengthening community resilience.
Spotlight from St John Ambulance Association Zimbabwe
A message from Mary-Ann Richardson, CEO of St John Ambulance Association Zimbabwe, reflects on the vital role of volunteers in delivering care, responding to emergencies, and strengthening community resilience.
The message highlights the importance of training and preparedness, as well as the human commitment behind every response. It also highlights the Mother and Baby Programme, supported by volunteers who play a vital role in strengthening maternal and newborn health outcomes in vulnerable communities.
Transcript
My name is Mary-Ann Richardson, CEO of St John Ambulance Association Zimbabwe.
To every single one of our volunteers – thank you for the sacrifices nobody sees, the early mornings, the long walks, the tired feet and the missed time with your own families. All so that someone else can feel cared for.
For the gentle way you show up for people during moments when they may feel afraid, overwhelmed or alone. Volunteers like you are the heartbeat of our communities.
Through the Mother & Baby Project in Mount Hampden, Darwendale and Dzivarasekwa Extension; you hold the hands of expecting mothers, check on newborn babies, support outreach clinics and bring comfort directly into people’s homes.
And sometimes, what you give is more than medical support. Sometimes you give reassurance, dignity and hope. You remind people that they matter. They are seen. They are not alone.
This volunteer week, thank you for all the service that you give to the communities.
Volunteering in Zimbabwe covers emergency response, education, and community support, often making a quiet but lasting difference.
Daily messages of thanks leading up to St John’s Day will recognise the impact of our dedicated volunteers worldwide, showcasing the breadth of service across the St John family on our social media platforms.
