"My grandmother was a very important part of my life, especially during her final years. And because of her, I have always had a connection with the elderly. And I could think of no better way to honour her and all grandmas than to do this service."
Alex's connection to our community has grown deep with each experience at the thrift store. Not only does he help raise funds for our hospice programs, but he’s also gained a new perspective on what it means to care for others.
“Not just hospice care, but I cannot put into words how much loving kindness goes into this entire hospice and palliative care space. I just hope that all other communities have something similar.” His work with us has shown him the true power of compassion, and he’s inspired by the kindness he encounters every day."
One memorable experience for Alex came when he stumbled upon a truly unique item in the thrift store—a carbon graphite rod that extends over 8 meters. Not sure what it was, he turned to TikTok to ask for help, and the post went viral, with over 3 million views and coverage from news outlets across Canada and the US! It turned out to be a Tenkara fishing rod, estimated to be valued at over $100!! It sold quickly at our thrift store for just $20!
When asked how volunteering with us has impacted his life, Alex explained,
“There is a reason why all religions preach the golden rule, which is to treat others like you would like to be treated. Unfortunately, religions get a bad rap in society these days. But the reason you should do this is that whatever you give is given back to you in kind. There are so many quotes on this. What comes around goes around. You get what you give. It works for good things as well. That’s why I volunteer, and it has impacted my life tremendously.”
It’s this belief in the power of giving that keeps Alex motivated to continue volunteering. “Just do it,” he says to anyone considering joining our team of volunteers. “When it comes to doing anything that you know is good, on your heart. You, just do it. Don’t hesitate.”
Whether you’re shopping or donating, your support helps fund essential services like grief counselling, palliative care, and community outreach. Every item at our thrift store has the potential to make a difference—just like Alex’s viral find did. Our thrift store is full of unexpected finds. Come visit us at the Burnaby Hospice Society Thrift Store today to see what treasures you can uncover and how your support can make a lasting impact. Every purchase directly supports Burnaby Hospice Society’s free programs and services for the community.
Interested in volunteering with us? Visit https://burnabyhospice.org/volunteer to apply.
You can also follow Alex’s journey on Instagram and Facebook at @alwaysbestorytelling or his TikTok channel @alexjrlim.eth to see more videos of interesting items we found at our thrift store!
