In the heart of our vibrant community lies a group of unsung heroes who tirelessly work to make a difference, one family at a time. They are the BMBAN volunteers who pull together every 6 months or so to put together our pre-loved baby & kids market. A smashing success on every occasion, it is always a highlight of our calendar.

As we gear up for our last market of 2023, we want to celebrate and acknowledge the remarkable contributions of our volunteers. Mark your calendars for the return of BMBAN’s much-anticipated pre-loved baby and kid’s clothing market on 22 October 2023 – bookings are now open!

The Power of Volunteers

Before we delve into the excitement of our upcoming event, let’s take a moment to recognise the multiple heartbeats of BMBAN: our dedicated volunteers. Without their unwavering commitment and passion, we simply wouldn’t exist. They are the driving force behind our regular playgroups, social events, children’s activities, discounted activities, masterclasses, and the general support we provide to our members. They exemplify the true meaning of community, coming together to support parents of multiples on their unique journey.

Volunteering is not just a local phenomenon. In Australia, and around the world, volunteers play a pivotal role in the non-profit sector. According to recent statistics, nearly one in three Australians actively participates in volunteering, contributing approximately 743 million hours of their time annually. This translates to an estimated economic and social contribution of over $290 billion per year. These figures highlight the immense value that volunteers bring to organisations and communities, underscoring their importance in driving positive change.

Volunteering stats on the home front

We’ve been keeping our own statistics too (yes, we’re multi-talented!). Our last pre-loved market held in May this year produced some pretty impressive numbers:

• 32 volunteers over the 2-day event
• 76 volunteer hours
• 63 member families were able to shop, entirely for FREE
• A further 36 bags were sold to members of the public at the heavily-reduced rate of $10 per bag, extending our reach into the broader community.
• A trailer-load of leftover clothing was delivered to 1-World Charity; with a selection of specific clothing delivered to our friends at Baby Give Back.

We are incredibly proud of the efforts from our last event, and we’re expecting more of the same this time around!

Challenges and Solutions

Of course, no endeavor is without its challenges, and volunteer-run organisations like ours are no exception. Coordinating schedules, managing resources, and maintaining enthusiasm can be demanding. But our volunteers are adept at finding solutions. They embody the spirit of teamwork, pooling their talents to overcome obstacles and keep BMBAN thriving.

One of the significant challenges we’ve faced is ensuring a steady stream of volunteers. The demands of modern life can sometimes make it challenging for individuals to commit to volunteering regularly. This means that every volunteer hour we receive is even more precious.

Join Us on 22 October

We cannot overstate the importance of volunteers in making our organization a success. Without their dedication, BMBAN’s story would be vastly different. That’s why we’re inviting you to join us on 22 October 2023 for an event that embodies the spirit of community, compassion, and clothes.

Our pre-loved baby and kid’s clothing market is a testament to what volunteers can achieve. They have put their heart and soul into organising this event, curating a collection of high-quality, gently used clothing for your little ones. The best part? It’s available at incredibly low prices, making it accessible to all families.

By attending our pre-loved clothing market, you’re not only getting fantastic deals on adorable outfits for your children; you’re also supporting BMBAN and its mission to provide invaluable support to parents of multiples on Brisbane’s Northside. The funds raised go back into our programs, ensuring that we can continue to make a positive impact in the lives of our members.

How to Get Involved

If you’re a parent of multiples or know someone who is, consider becoming a member of BMBAN. Our organisation is here to support you on your journey, and your membership helps us sustain our valuable programs. And don’t forget, members shop FOR FREE at the market!

Mark your calendar for 22 October 2023 – booking link is here! We can’t wait to see you all!

BMBAN is wishing all mothers a very special Mother’s Day this year. We especially send our love to our expectant and first-time member mums, and congratulate them on their first Mother’s Day!

This poem is for all our multiples mums xx

Their eyes widen as they say not one, but two little heartbeats,
For very special mums maybe it’s even more (what a treat!).
You’re scared, amazed and happy, but overwhelmed, just a bit,
But then you start to wonder, where on Earth are they all going to fit?!

You research and prepare as much as you can,
But the bone-aching tiredness runs from your feet to your hands.
Emotions are wild, they seem to ebb and flow with the tide,
One minute you’re up, and the next? You want off the ride.

But it’s all ok we promise, go find your ticket and sit back down,
Because you will push through the pain. You will find your crown.
The time goes quickly, isn’t that what everyone says?
Well it does my friend, it does, so much that it scares.

Somewhere from within you will find your grit,
You may not know it at the time, but when you look back, you’ll see it!
You rally and wait and then here comes Baby A! Oh, and there is Baby B!
And for our truly blessed mummas, maybe a little baby C.

You may not get to see or hold them right away, but that’s all ok,
Remember, you’re a mum now, on this very special day.
Kisses and cuddles might be delayed, but never fear,
When you do finally get to hold them you will shed many happy tears.

At some point you will be ready to take your babies home,
Now this part, my friend, will be challenging on its own!
But you will survive, you will thrive, I promise!
Just remember to take it steady and be kind to yourself.

Your body needs time to heal, much longer than you might think,
But don’t forget to nourish your mind, your heart, and your spirit.
The days will be long, and the nights probably even longer,
But remember what you’ve already achieved- you’re so much stronger!

Someday soon those little babies will grow so much bigger,
The newborn scrunch disappears, and you watch your toddler giggle.
It’s probably only then that you will pause to reflect,
Jeez, what did I just conquer? I was an absolute wreck!

No you weren’t, not even a little bit, not even at all,
You became a very special mum, only few will get the call.
You became a mum of multiples, a mum of more,
A truly courageous mum, a mum we all adore.