Philip & Mark’s Story
Philip, 90, was referred to the Connector Project because he wanted to increase his confidence with walking as he felt like he was not getting enough exercise.
He was keen to go on some walks in his local area so that he could improve his physical wellbeing.
Philip was matched with connector volunteer Mark, 35, and they went on six walks together over the summer.
They started slowly so that Philip could build up his confidence over time. One afternoon they went blackberry picking, which Philip had never done before.
Philip
“
Mark was very good and helped me a lot. He was very patient with me when I couldn’t walk too far. He didn’t put any pressure on me. I feel a lot more confident and have started going on walks independently.
Mark
“
I have made good friendships with people who I would never have had the opportunity of interacting with otherwise. It’s been great helping them accomplish their goals.
Mark said he was drawn to Together Co because it helps people accomplish their own goals and expand their horizons.
He liked that the interactions were led by the needs and desires of the people Together Co supports, and said it was a great pleasure to be a part of such a lovely group of people.
He added: “While the individualisation of our society has been exciting in many ways, it has also atomised us. We are missing otherwise natural opportunities to connect across generations and are poorer for it. I believe Together Co is a valuable part of redressing this disconnection.
“I have made good friendships with people who I would never have had the opportunity of interacting with otherwise. It’s been great helping them accomplish their goals.
“Philip is very open minded and I learned loads from him. Staying sharp for 90 years has given him some great perspectives which he was very kind in sharing with me. I hope he has many more happy walks to come.”
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