Volunteer Shirley Capon says she is fulfilling a promise to herself by sparing time to support two popular charity shops.
The 73-year-old has been helping in Southwold’s East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) store since the day it opened last October.
She also gives an afternoon a week to help in the charity’s Leiston shop.
The mum of two, who has two grandchildren, is pleased she stayed true to her word and says the experience has exceeded all expectations.
“I’ve always loved charity shops, spotting bargains and doing something positive to support worthy causes,” said Shirley, who lives in Yoxford.
“As such, I always promised myself that when I retired – assuming my health allowed – I’d offer to volunteer in one.
“That’s how I got started, and I’m pleased to say it’s been a thoroughly positive experience and exceeded all expectations.
“I love it and would recommend volunteering to anyone.
“Sometimes people can be anxious about certain things, like being asked to use the till. Or they might feel they can’t volunteer enough time to make it worthwhile.
“However, there’s no need to worry. There are various jobs in the shops, and people can do what they feel comfortable doing, or what they enjoy most.
“As for time, there’s no pressure or obligation and just helping for a couple of hours a week or fortnight can make a real difference. It all adds up.”
Shirley was speaking during EACH’s Care to Help campaign – a 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 direct correlation between volunteering hours and the care and support EACH provides.
She worked as a carer before spending the last dozen years of her working life in the office at the same care home.
“After retiring, I needed something to occupy myself and love meeting new people,” she said.
“I feel that’s important when you live on your own, and I enjoy having a chat with customers and my fellow volunteers.
“They have so many interesting stories to tell, and I like working in two coastal towns, as you get lots of day-trippers and visitors.
“The two shops are very different, but I feel equally passionate about both.”
EACH’s Care to Help campaign kicked off on 12th May. New volunteers are being encouraged to step up to the challenge and help change the lives of families receiving vital care and support.
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).
For more information about volunteering in Southwold, email [email protected] or call 01502 441275. To find out more about volunteering in Leiston, email [email protected] or call 01728 830412.
