Meet Michael and Maggie

In the heart of  County Down lies a story of dedication, companionship, and the love for dogs.

Meet Michael and Maggie who embarked on a journey of volunteering for Rosie’s Trust over five years ago. Despite the absence of beneficiaries in their area initially, their passion for staying active and giving back to the community led them to join Rosie’s Trust and their patience was rewarded with two human and pet beneficiaries in the area.

With backgrounds in warehouse management and nursing, Michael and Maggie sought a role that would keep them busy and engaged following their early retirement. Being avid walkers, they found the perfect fit as Rosie’s Trust Dog Support volunteers. While they had experience with relatives’ dogs, their lifestyle of frequent getaways made owning a dog impractical. Additionally, their nervous cat’s disdain for canines made having a pet dog out of the question. Nevertheless, volunteering with Rosie’s Trust has provided them with the perfect balance of dog company without the permanent commitment.

Their journey as Rosie’s Trust volunteers took them to Newcastle, perfect for leisurely dog walks. Subsequently, their volunteering endeavours led them to Ardglass, equally as perfect as Newcastle, offering breathtaking views of the sea.

While the couple initially envisioned getting fit through their volunteering, the temptations of Newcastle’s coffee shops and the irresistible cakes baked by their Ardglass beneficiary posed delightful challenges to their fitness goals. Despite the indulgences, Michael and Maggie remain committed to their volunteering duties, cherishing the moments spent with the dogs and the joy of making a positive impact in their beneficiaries’ lives.

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, Michael and his partner’s story serves as a reminder of the simple joys found in giving back, staying active, and embracing the companionship of dogs. Their journey with Rosie’s Trust exemplifies the beauty of volunteering, the power of community, and the transformative impact of a wagging tail and a warm smile.