A hard-working charity shop volunteer says she loves making a “positive difference” by helping children and families receiving care and support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Pepe Ong, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef, is a regular helper at the charity’s shop in Long Stratton.
She first got involved during the pandemic and is speaking out during EACH’s Care to Help campaign – a major recruitment drive taking place throughout May, encouraging extra volunteers to help in its 52 shops and Retail Distribution Centre, in Thetford. One of the key aims is to highlight the correlation between volunteering hours and the care and support EACH provides.
“I like keeping busy and couldn’t imagine sitting at home all day,” said Pepe.
“Volunteering is good for the soul, and it’s healthy being around other people and building new friendships.
“To me, it’s like therapy. I walk away from the shop and think ‘that was fun’, and I enjoy trying to make a positive difference.”
Pepe is now a duty manager volunteer, which means she has extra responsibilities, including being a key holder. She also gives her time to support Parkinson’s UK.
“I was passing by the Long Stratton shop one day and saw a sign outside requesting extra volunteers,” she said.
“I’d had my own business which closed just before the pandemic and wasn’t doing anything at that time, so thought why not?
“I also have a part-time paid job, of which part of my role is recruiting volunteers, so I know how difficult it is getting people through the door.
“It’s tough but certainly something I’d recommend to anyone. I love it.”
EACH’s Care to Help campaign kicked off on Monday and new volunteers are being encouraged to step up to the challenge and help change the lives of families receiving vital care and support.
The charity has a fast-growing retail operation, and there are opportunities to suit people’s skills and interests, from serving customers to sorting and pricing donations, dressing windows, steaming clothes, testing electrical equipment and listing items on eBay.
Other key roles include being a key holder, listing and sending books and being a driver’s mate, heading out to distribute goods, including collecting and dropping off furniture.
To find out more about volunteering for EACH, pop into your local shop, visit each.org.uk/volunteering, email [email protected] or call 01223 205183 (option four).
