What’s in it for WE?

Who are ‘WE’?  WE are a mix of people, just like YOU, who are willing to commit just two hours of our time once or  twice a month, with no pressure or hassle if WE can’t make it every time!  You can help by visiting the shop, volunteering or donating your unwanted items.

Whenever I hear anyone is looking for volunteers, my brain goes on to autopilot!  Does any of this sound familiar?

• I can’t – I’ve got too much to do as it is!
• I wouldn’t be of much use / what difference would I make?
• What’s in it for me anyway?

I thought all these things too until earlier this year, when a sermon I heard in this church, about what WE can do in the ‘real world’ to make a difference, made a big impact on me!   We do not need to perform earth-shattering feats of human endeavour and sacrifice!  Even small gestures can have a big impact if we work together!

The Thrift Shop could not open on Fridays because there were no volunteers.  All that was needed were people willing to devote a couple of hours of their time a month!   That’s all it has taken to get the ball rolling, and WE have been opening the Shop for two Fridays a month, from 12 to 2pm since early this year.

“WE are privileged to serve in the team, meeting great people and knowing we are making a tangible and positive difference to many customers, and at the same time, knowing all funds raised go to help others less fortunate than ourselves – a definite a win- win situation!”  Richard & Natasha, Friday Volunteers

“Volunteering at the Thrift Shop has enabled me, by giving up a meagre 4 hours a month, to meet lots of great people and to learn that the work WE are doing is really contributing.  By raising money through selling second hand goods, The Thrift Shop is really helping people in need.” Maria & Jim, Friday Volunteers

“It was a pleasure and a privilege to have met and worked with you and the other ladies. I am looking forward to coming back in the Autumn.” Margaret Riby, New volunteer, (Sun/Tue Team)

“WE enjoyed every minute of our time volunteering in the Thrift Shop.  The people were great, and the community spirit  was great!  We wish we were still there and miss everyone but we had to move on.  God bless!”  Chris & Susan, Friday Volunteers

“Do you ever think that you would like to do something for a charity but just cannot make the commitment for various reasons?   Well, I am in the lucky situation that I can commit within a few minutes for a few hours,  no strings attached.  I live far out of town and am never sure when I am coming into town on a Friday for church, as sometimes I come in on a Sunday for various reasons. Whenever I am able to come to church on a Friday it is so easy just to pop next door after the service and there I can spend a few hours helping out in the Thrift shop. I do try to let the Team Leader know in advance as she needs to coordinate the volunteers, but should I not be able to, I have always found the other volunteers so flexible that I can just slot in and as they are always needing an extra pairs of hands.  I am always made to feel very welcome….so next time you are in town ease that feeling of wanting to do your bit but cannot commit…. Just go for it!” Elayne Henderson from South Africa, Teacher’s Assistant.