Remembering Russell: A quiet force behind everything we do

Some people make a difference loudly. Others do it quietly, consistently, and with such kindness that you only fully realise the scale of their impact when you stop and look back at everything they helped build.

That was Russell.

Russell joined us in 2015 as part of the car service, initially using his own vehicle to help support the charity. It didn’t take long, though, for him to become far more than just a volunteer driver. Before long, Russell was helping wherever he was needed, becoming the staff team’s “go to” driver whenever emergencies arose or extra support was needed.

Aileen recalls how Russell would regularly pop in simply to check everyone was OK.

“He was always popping in to check the staff were OK, which made such a difference - and I know he did that for me too.”

That thoughtfulness became one of Russell’s trademarks. He never needed recognition or attention; he simply cared about people and wanted to help.

In 2018, Russell became a trustee and took on the role of Health & Safety lead for the charity. His practical mindset and attention to detail helped strengthen the organisation in ways that are still felt today. He created the risk assessment templates that continue to be used across the charity and played a key role in helping establish the Men’s Shed in 2019 - a project that has gone on to support and connect so many people in the community.

Russell was also a proud member of the Malvern Lions and was passionate about connecting people and organisations together for the benefit of the community. Through those connections, he helped secure valuable fundraising support for the charity over the years. Most recently, he arranged sponsorship for several Sunday Tea Clubs and helped bring fun and energy to Midsummer Malvern by borrowing games including “Splat the Rat” and “Play Your Cards Right” - both of which helped raise much-needed funds.

Although Russell later had to step away from driving duties for health reasons, he never truly stepped away from the charity. He still regularly dropped in to see everyone - often bringing cakes with him and continued contributing wherever he could. In 2024, he was actively involved in the charity’s rebrand and played an important part in shaping the design of the new website.

As a valued member of the Events Team, Russell also introduced the charity to the Colwall Players, helping spark the idea for the hugely successful murder mystery events. Those evenings not only brought people together but raised more than £2,000 for the charity - another example of Russell making a lasting difference right until the very end.

Russell’s contribution cannot be measured simply in roles, fundraising totals, or projects completed. It is found in the reassurance he gave staff, the encouragement he gave volunteers, the friendships he built, and the countless acts of kindness that often happened quietly behind the scenes.

He made this charity stronger, warmer, and more connected.

And for that, we will always be grateful.