We'd like to say a HUGE thank you to our group of amazing volunteers who support our work by caring for our green spaces, showcasing the unique history at The Guild Chapel, helping out at our Repair Cafe in partnership with Net Zero Stratford and providing company and activities at our monthy Warm Welcome at our Community Hub.
Here, we hear from two of them about their experiences and why they enjoy volunteering with us!
Dianne Owen – Conservation
I volunteer because I’m retired and have some time to ‘give something back’ to what I believe are worthwhile causes. I chose conservation because it is a cause I believe in - I think the environment and wildlife can sometimes get overlooked when government/businesses are trying to achieve their goals. Green spaces are vital, as the ‘lungs’ of the area; to provide spaces where wildlife can be safe and proliferate; and to provide areas for the local community to connect with nature and realise its importance to both mental and physical health.
Volunteering has many benefits to the individuals who are volunteering. For me, it gets me out of the house sometimes on days when I might otherwise have stayed put, so I get fresh air and exercise. I meet other people with some similar interests, but from different backgrounds, which can be very interesting. And when I moved to Stratford more than 30 years ago now, one of the reasons was its natural environment, so I like feeling I’m contributing to this for future generations.
Marcus Wall - The Guild Chapel
I volunteer as I enjoy meeting visitors from all over the world, sharing what knowledge I have, and I like to promote the town and its history. I chose the Guild Chapel as it's such a remarkable building, (I'm interested in medieval history - I have a degree, though am no expert), and I know little about conservation and couldn't repair a thing.
In return I've met many fascinating people and have learned much from them about:
- their own nations' history and culture
- aspects of medieval history and art
- Shakespeare and his times