Volunteer of the Month – May

This month’s volunteer is one of our fantastic residents, who we are unfortunately unable to name and photograph, but we wanted them to still have this very worthy recognition they deserve.

This resident, along with their carer has truly changed the running of our charity shop and events in more ways than one.

They started their volunteering journey with us in 2023 to help build their confidence and continue improving their skills!

Their journey started by volunteering at our summer events (Theatre in the Park) where they worked in front of house, greeting customers with a smile and making sure they checked in for the event. Their role has now developed into more than that and they are now ‘charity shop volunteer’. Working twice a week at our charity shop based in Herne Bay, putting out stock, cashing up the till and much more. Picking up these extra shifts has allowed our shop to open more throughout the week.

When chatting to them, their favourite thing about working in the charity shop was “the amazing clothes and getting to shop on the job”. This in itself is a massive accomplishment for them.

Their carer added: “Before starting this volunteer opportunity they struggled with anxiety and ordering at the checkout was a huge task that required lots of help. Since volunteering they have been able to order their own lunch, talk to any customer that walks in. It is truly remarkable, the change in their confidence from beginning to now is astonishing.”

“Volunteering makes me happy; I like helping others and working with my friends,” this is how they describe volunteering; it has allowed an enrichment of happiness throughout their life and created an extra element of social interaction.

Whilst chatting we asked what one word; they would use to describe volunteering that word was ‘exciting’. We elaborated on this, and it provides them with a purpose and excites them each day they have to get up to volunteer.

Thank you, for all your continued hard work, we couldn’t provide the wonderful care that we do, without your support.

If you are interested in volunteering and giving the gift of time, then please either call 01227 373292 or email volunteering@strodepark.org.uk