Watch Anita’s Story of Community, Connection and Volunteering
Bristol Charities is proud to share a new short film featuring trustee Anita, reflecting on her experience of volunteering, community and witnessing the impact of Bristol Charities’ work across the city.
In the video, Anita speaks honestly and warmly about why she chose to become involved with Bristol Charities and what community connection means to her. Having spent much of her professional career leading Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives within the Ministry of Defence, Anita has always felt strongly about wanting to make a difference and give back to her community.
💬 “I’ve always felt strongly about my community and giving back, and actually wanting to be part of the process or the structure of actually making a difference.”
Anita describes being drawn to Bristol Charities because of the organisation’s strong connection to local people and communities.
💬 “Bristol Charities have this ethic that they are deeply connected to the community and that they want to make that community a better place.”
One of the most powerful moments Anita reflects on in the film is attending the opening of the Vassall Community Hub, where she saw residents, organisations and community groups come together in a shared and welcoming space.
💬 “It was really quite emotional to see all the communities come together and how they were so supportive of each other.”
She also speaks about the atmosphere and energy within the Hub, and how witnessing those moments reinforced the importance of the work taking place across Bristol Charities.
💬 “Just the buzz around the building and everybody’s energy — it was really lovely. And that to me confirmed that yes, we were actually achieving something.”
The film also includes Anita’s encouragement to anyone considering volunteering or becoming involved in community work.
💬 “If I was to give any advice to someone wanting to volunteer, I would say yes. Look at Bristol Charities. You would actually be giving back to the community and you would actually get something personally — take something personally from it.”
The short video offers a thoughtful and personal insight into the importance of volunteering, community connection and the role trustees play in helping shape Bristol Charities’ future.
🎥 Watch Anita’s Story here: https://youtu.be/TEyNs7WAilI
Get Involved
If you would like to volunteer at one of Bristol Charities’ community hubs or find out more about ways to get involved, we would love to hear from you.
📧 volunteering@bristolcharities.org.uk
Together, we can continue building stronger, more connected communities across Bristol.
