Thank you to the participants who joined us for a successful Volunteer Taster Day this week on a sunny day full of smiles, hard work, and community spirit.
Seven potential volunteers joined us for the day to find out more about volunteering opportunities in our gardens and outdoor areas, as well as in The Vintage Advantage charity shop and Garden Centre shop.
The group made the most of the glorious weather and rolled up their sleeves to help pull up weeds and prune plants around the The Walled Garden, working together to on clearing and planting for autumn.
For those more interested in shop work, they lent a hand with sorting donations to the charity shop, or getting behind the counter serving customers in the Garden Centre shop.
One volunteer said: “It’s been lovely to be outside and clear plants and pruning. I love gardening, but my garden at home isn’t that big. I’ve enjoyed coming here.
“I like the fact that volunteering can be flexible, and that I can make a small but meaningful contribution to my community and to supporting students and staff at Derwen College.”
Another volunteer added: “It’s been a beautiful day. However, I enjoy being outside in nature in all weathers. It’s been really satisfying and I can’t wait to sign up properly to come more regularly.”
Meg Charman, Events and Volunteer Coordinator, was delighted with the turnout.
She said: “It was lovely to meet such dedicated people who were keen to find out more about volunteering at Derwen,” she said. “Our volunteers make such a difference – whether they’re supporting our retail outlets or helping to maintain our gardens, their contribution is hugely valued. We were thrilled to hear that many of our visitors are keen to return as regular volunteers – and we can’t wait to welcome them back.”
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, or want to find out more about our next open day, please visit our website at www.derwen.ac.uk or email our Volunteer Coordinator Meg.
