Gary’s story

After years of disciplined service as a paratrooper, Gary has spent the past year redefining what it means to serve—this time with a staple gun in hand and a passion for transformation.

“For me, my brains are in my hands,” he says with a grin, a nod to his natural talent for hands-on work. Always drawn to DIY projects, he found himself looking for a new way to stretch his skills. That’s when he stumbled into the world of upholstery—a craft that quickly became more than just a hobby.

“Upholstery isn’t just about fixing up old furniture,” he explains. “It’s about giving something a new life. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing a finished piece go out the door, knowing it’ll be used and appreciated again.”

Balancing his volunteering with other commitments and holidays, Gary still makes time for the workshop, where camaraderie and cake are as important as craftsmanship. “I love the banter, the chat—it’s a proper laugh,” he says. “And there’s always cake, which helps.”

He describes the experience as both challenging and fulfilling. “You don’t know you’re living until you’re on the edge,” he says, echoing a mindset honed during his military days. But here, the edge is creative—a place where he continues to push himself, learn new skills, and contribute real value to the community.

A year in, Gary is still hooked. Volunteering hasn’t just offered him a new skillset—it’s given him purpose, satisfaction, and a team that feels like home.