How did you get involved in volunteering with Community Impact Bucks?
Following my retirement from a career with Community Impact Bucks, I was keen to maintain my connection with the organisation and other voluntary organisations in Buckinghamshire. I’ve been volunteering for 11 years now.
What is your role and what does it involve?
My role focuses on supporting village halls and community centres across Buckinghamshire. I help trustees navigate the sometimes complex waters of governance, operational challenges, and charitable status requirements. This might involve anything from advising on constitutional matters to helping halls modernise their practices whilst maintaining compliance.
What motivated you to start and continue volunteering?
In my time working at Community Impact Bucks, alongside volunteering at my local village hall, I’d accumulated considerable knowledge about how community spaces function best. It seemed a shame to let that experience go to waste upon retirement.
I continue because I see the real difference this knowledge makes – watching village halls transform from struggling entities into thriving community hubs is incredibly rewarding.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with us?
The biscuits are certainly a perk. But in all seriousness, I thoroughly enjoy the intellectual challenge of researching solutions to the wide-ranging issues that trustees bring to us. Every query is unique, and I’m constantly learning. Being considered a valued member of the Community Impact Bucks team makes it all the more enjoyable.
Would you recommend volunteering and, if so, why?
Absolutely – volunteering keeps you engaged with life in ways you might not expect. Whether it’s physical activity or, as in my case, keeping the grey matter active through research and staying up-to-date with regulations, it’s enormously beneficial. Plus, the social aspect shouldn’t be underestimated – I’ve met some wonderful people through volunteering.
Additional information:
- If you are looking for a volunteering role, sign up on the Volunteer Bucks Platform.
- If you are involved in managing a Community Building, find out how Community Impact Bucks can support you bey visiting the Community Buildings webpage.
