Alicia is in her early 50s and lives in Saddleworth.  She works full-time from home, building a better mobile network, and has three grown up children and a dog that always wants to be walked.

Why did you decide to become a Re-engage volunteer? 
On a rare evening at home by myself I watched a documentary on Channel 4 called "Old People's Home for four year olds".  The documentary was a trial in Bristol to show what happened when ten toddlers turned up to play at the home of an older person.  The whole programme was heart warming but it showed how incredibly isolated and lonely older people are, with some not having any contact with the outside world.  I was horrified by what I learned and could not bear to think of the wonderful people featured being so alone.  So whilst drying my tears, I submitted an application to join Re-engage.   

What does your role involve?
I have been involved with Re-engage for nearly four years, since the Oldham 2 tea party group was set up,  and I'm the group co-ordinator. My tasks are to organise the monthly get togethers.  This means arranging who will be host every month and who will drive the older people on the day.  I'm also a host and driver for the group myself. This only takes a couple of hours every month and I really have no difficulty giving up my time for such a rewarding role. 
 
What's the best thing about being a volunteer for Re-engage? 
I love being a host, mainly because I love baking and creating something delicious for the guests. But the best thing is making friends with the older guests and giving them the opportunity to get out and be a part of the community.  I also love seeing them smiling and chatting to the other guests.

What makes you get out of bed every morning?
My dog, waiting to be walked.

Do you have a favourite saying or quote that you live by?
May the force be with you...and Pay It forward...

What do would you say to anyone who was thinking about becoming a volunteer? 
You may be in this same situation in a few years time so why not give up a couple of hours every month to bring happiness to someone's lonely life?  They will be so incredibly grateful. 

You'll have a new group of friends in no time and they will really cherish everything you do. It's very rewarding.

What's the best thing about being a volunteer for Re-engage? 
My family and I have become close to a 94 year old lady, Edith, who is single with no living friends or family. She now spends Christmas Eve with us and we always make it a special occasion for her with a Christmas gift or two too.