Volunteering Transforms Life for Woman Feeling Invisible at 54

Two years ago, Sharron Hopkins experienced a turning point in her life when she felt increasingly invisible at the age of 54. After spending a day away from her family, she returned home to silence, prompting her to reflect on her sense of purpose and visibility within her household. This moment marked the beginning of a transformative journey, as she sought to redefine her identity through volunteering.

Sharron, along with her husband, Trevor, has fostered over 100 children over the past twelve years, providing care for those from various challenging backgrounds. Despite this extensive experience, she found herself grappling with feelings of insignificance when her teenage foster children and her daughters, Grace and Maisie, began relying on her less. This shift left her with ample free time, which she initially struggled to fill.

Determined to regain a sense of purpose, Sharron vowed to say “yes” to new opportunities. Her journey began when she stumbled upon a news segment about FareShare, a charity dedicated to redistributing surplus food to those in need. Intrigued, she quickly signed up to volunteer at their warehouse in Southampton, where she was warmly welcomed by the staff and fellow volunteers.

The first day at FareShare was a revelation for Sharron. “I felt immediately welcomed and valued,” she recalled, contrasting her previous feelings of invisibility. The camaraderie among volunteers and the rewarding nature of the work reinvigorated her spirit. Not only did she contribute to a noble cause, but she also rediscovered her joy in being part of a community.

As Sharron settled into her new role, she took on additional responsibilities, including obtaining a van driving license to facilitate food deliveries. Today, she commits to four regular shifts each week, often driving over 200 miles to distribute food to various charities. The experience has brought her a renewed sense of identity and connection, similar to the camaraderie she enjoyed in her early twenties.

Volunteering has provided Sharron with more than just a routine; it has allowed her to interact with diverse individuals, both fellow volunteers and those benefiting from the charity’s efforts. “I feel like I’m back in my early 20s having the best fun with my friends,” she shared. This newfound energy has not only enriched her life but also positively impacted her family. Trevor and their daughters have taken on more responsibilities at home, ensuring Sharron can fulfill her volunteering commitments.

Reflecting on her transformative journey, Sharron encourages other women who may feel similarly lost or invisible to consider volunteering. She believes that saying “yes” to new opportunities can lead to unexpected joy and fulfillment. “It might just be the best thing you’ve ever done,” she advises.

Through her experience, Sharron has illuminated a significant aspect of life for many women approaching middle age. The feelings of invisibility and lack of purpose are common but can be addressed through proactive engagement in community service. Sharron’s story serves as a reminder that it is never too late to seek new challenges and connections that can enrich one’s life.