Young Single Adults Experience the Joys of Service

More than 40 young single adults from Butler to Bunbury (200 km distance) recently came together to renovate furniture, deep-clean grounds and create new garden beds for residents of four assisted-living government homes in Perth, Western Australia.

The event, planned months in advance, was organised by young single adult leader Mackenzie Molewyk  from the Rockingham Stake (diocese) of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

As part of the service initiative, local businesses donated over 200 native plants, soil, paint and varnish to the project to assist the young adults in their renovations.

Claire Parsons of the North Coast Stake explained, “After a challenging week of focusing on my own situation, it was nice to get out of my head and think of someone else. I enjoyed being able to serve a group who needed a bit of help and provide a better space for those in need.”

One of the carers commented that a major benefit of the project was to bring awareness to the community of those with disabilities and to break down social barriers often existing in society.

The event had a significant impact on the participants themselves.

“I had a great experience coming together for such a worthwhile initiative. It was a wonderful opportunity to not only to beautify and create a safe space for workers and residents, but also to serve with my young single adult friends. The feeling of the day was sensational as we worked, laughed and enjoyed the day together,” expressed Sean Joseph of the Dianella Stake.

He continued, “With the demands throughout the week of work, studies, family and other responsibilities, I experienced much peace and joy by pausing to serve and help lift others.”

Stefany Clancy of the Dianella Stake shared, “Having recently moved to Perth, it was wonderful to connect with the local community and provide for others.”

For many of those participating, it wasn’t until the end of their activity that they learned that they were also serving one of their own.

Clancy, who is GDD (global developmental delay) with Autism, and brother to event organiser Mackenzie Molewyk, resides in one of the four government houses.

Throughout the planning process, Mackenzie felt impressed, “that my brother and those alike hindered by physical limitations are indeed beloved children of God just like myself and all other young single adults.”

As organiser, she wanted to create a meaningful service opportunity where young single adults could also give back to the fulltime caregivers who “provide every opportunity possible for residents to live happy and pleasant lives.”

Of the day’s accomplishments, Mackenzie reflected, “I am grateful for the willingness of the many volunteers who were able to show their love and support towards this service project. My heart was touched as I witnessed so many young adults sacrifice their time and weekend to serve so joyfully as a unified team.”