Two Hats, One Heart: A Journey Of Impact
Anne
A Step Into the Unknown
I first heard about Babes through its Executive Director Melisa, whom I had previously volunteered with. Although I had no experience working solely with teenagers, something about Babes’ mission spoke to me. Their mother-centric approach—supporting young mothers with empathy, dignity and choice—was unlike anything I had encountered before. What truly moved me was the dedication shown by the staff and volunteers in walking alongside these girls through such a vulnerable phase of life. That was enough to convince me to take the leap.
Wearing Two Hats
Since joining, I have taken on two roles: volunteer caseworker and lead for the Befrienders team, which provides one-on-one support to our service users. These responsibilities complement one another. As a caseworker, I gain a deeper understanding of each service user’s needs. This allows me to thoughtfully match them with Befrienders who can offer relevant emotional support. It is incredibly fulfilling to witness these connections take root, knowing that each girl is being supported in a way that meets her where she is.
Finding My Footing
To be honest, I was not sure I could relate to teenagers, even though I have two teenage daughters of my own. But Babes turned out to be a nurturing space—not only for the girls, but for volunteers too. The staff are generous with encouragement and always ready to share training resources or recommend courses. Over time, I found my footing. Now, I not only connect with the girls; I genuinely enjoy it. This experience has even enriched my professional life, helping me realise how my personal values can be applied across different age groups.
Patience Works Wonders
This work demands patience, consistency and adaptability. There are days when girls disengage or stop responding altogether. Yet I have learnt to celebrate small wins – even a single reply after days of silence feels like a breakthrough. I remember the time a service user who had been quiet for weeks reached out, ready to receive support again. Helping her reconnect with the right caseworkers reminded me how far patience can go in building trust.
Working Together for Greater Impact
It is wonderful that Babes is willing to take on volunteer caseworkers. Volunteering here means contributing to a larger ecosystem that puts the girls at the heart of it all. One of the most meaningful aspects of volunteering at Babes is knowing that we help lighten the load for the dedicated social workers. As volunteer caseworkers, we typically manage lower-risk cases, freeing up the professionals to focus on high-risk situations or community outreach. This ensures that no one falls through the cracks and that each girl receives the care she needs. It is rewarding to know my role, however small, helps sustain this vital work.
A Note to Fellow Volunteers
If I could write a note to my future self, or to someone just starting this journey, it would be this: Be sincere in giving and respectful in your approach. Hold no expectations and always remember that your focus is to provide support.
Written by volunteer, Wendy Loh