The idea that life slows down after 60 is an outdated myth, just ask Bill Lenihan. As an Owner at Austen Lodge in Basingstoke, Bill is living proof that retirement can be a time of purpose, connection and community impact. Since moving to the Lodge, he has dedicated a remarkable amount of time and energy to helping others in the community. Bill has become a beacon of compassion and action, proving that life after retirement doesn’t mean slowing down, but rather, stepping up.
Living at the Lodge has given Bill the freedom and flexibility to pursue all of his volunteering activities without the everyday stresses of homeownership. With the convenient and comfortable environment Churchill provides, he is able to focus his time and energy on what matters most to him, helping others. “Churchill makes it so easy.” Bill commented, “They’re always happy to support or let me get involved in any upcoming initiatives, when I’ve got time. It's a great place to live if you want to stay active and connected.”
Bill’s journey into volunteering began in 2019, after the loss of his wife. Looking for a way to stay connected and active, he turned to volunteering opportunities. His passion for helping others who need it most led him to joining the Lions International Club, where he now serves as Fundraising Chair. Though small in numbers, Bill and the Lions make a big impact, organising events, raffles and fairs to raise funds that go directly to those in need. From helping women and their families leaving refuges to supplying essential household items like cookers and furniture, Bill and his team answer calls for help from organisations like the Red Cross and other community partners.
Bill’s dedication to volunteering doesn’t just stop at immediate community needs. It also extends to helping young people pursue their dreams. He fondly recalls supporting a young Scout in attending a jamboree in Thailand, while another received funding to travel to America for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “We even gave her an Easter egg to raffle off, she ended up raising over £1,000 in total.” Bill shared, “It just shows that small gestures can really add up. All it takes is a little bit of action.”
Beyond fundraising, Bill wears many hats within the community. He’s the treasurer of a thriving over 55s group with more than 600 members, helping to coordinate monthly trips and holidays across the UK. Just last month, he helped organise a visit to Melrose in Scotland, with day trips to Edinburgh, Holy Island and Hadrian’s Wall.
Bill is also a regular at the local Men’s Shed, a community workshop where men gather weekly to work on creative and practical projects. These sessions offer a vital space for social connection whilst also raising funds for local causes. Additionally, in his rare spare time, Bill volunteers with Neighbour Care, driving older residents to hospital appointments and essential visits. It’s a lifeline for many and just another way Bill quietly supports his community.
“I also volunteer at the Air Science Museum in Farnborough two days a week in the workshop and at weekends I serve in the café and welcome visitors. It’s right next to the aircraft displays, there’s just so much history there. I love it!” he commented, “Volunteering gives me purpose, as you can probably tell, I don’t like sitting still. No matter how small your impact, you can still turn someone’s day around. It keeps me connected, and part of something bigger.”
Bill Lenihan is living proof that retirement can be a time of extraordinary purpose. Through his volunteering, he not only uplifts others but also sets an example for everyone at Churchill Living and beyond.
Bill’s words summarise it best, “You don’t have to do everything, just something, and we can make a massive difference”.