Volunteers Stories – Diane and Ann
In March 2011, the CHILDREN 1ST charity shop in Dundee celebrated its 20th anniversary. The shop is run by a team of dedicated volunteers under the management of long serving volunteer, Diane Donnelly, and annually raises around an incredible £36,000. One of the team, Ann Kippen, has been volunteering since the day the shop opened.
The celebration of the shop’s first birthday was attended by Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret and the 20th birthday was marked by a celebration bringing together volunteers past and present at the Invercarse Hotel, Dundee, on Wednesday 16 March 2011.
CHILDREN 1ST would like to thank all the individuals who have worked tirelessly over the past two decades to raise vital funds for Scotland's vulnerable children, young people and families. Without the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, many more families would go without the help they sorely need. Diane and Ann were interviewed about their volunteering experiences:
Can you tell me what an average (if there is such a thing!) day volunteering in the shop involves?
Ann: "Checking bric-a-brac, washing donated items and deciding on a price and window-dressing. Each volunteer has a specialism and mine is bric-a-brac. I have found some valuable items and sold them at auction for good prices. I also work on the till and chat with customers."
Diane: "Emptying donation bags; working on the till; window-dressing; testing toys and batteries. Having a good laugh!
What attracted you to volunteering in the Dundee shop?
Ann: "I knew some of the people who originally set up the shop. I was retired and lived nearby."
Diane: "I loved ironing and that was my main task at the beginning – 8 hours a day for 4 days a week – I only stopped for lunch! I then retired and was volunteering four days a week; later the ladies nominated me for the manager’s role."
What has been your most rewarding experience while you have been volunteering in the shop?
Ann: "People open their heart to you and tell you their good and bad news. It’s important not to be judgemental as people are from many different backgrounds. I enjoy the warm atmosphere in the shop."
Diane: "I’ve had some difficult times in my life and the ladies in the shop have always been there for me."
What has been the most challenging aspect of your volunteering role?
Ann: "Working with people from all different backgrounds and getting on well with everyone."
Diane: "Paperwork!"
What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering for CHILDREN 1ST?
Ann: "Do get involved if you want to help Scotland’s children. There is nothing better than helping to make a better future for the next generation."
Diane: "Think about your main reason for getting involved – you’ll get a lot out of volunteering."
