Volunteer of the Month

Volunteer of the Month – April 2025

Posted on 16 April 2025 by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Laura who volunteers during our family time sessions. We caught up with Laura to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I work at Netherton preschool Monday to Friday and volunteer for family time on alternative Saturdays. I have two children, a son who will be starting high school and a daughter who will be starting junior school this September.

Helping others is in my nature and something I really enjoy doing. You can find me on my day off standing on the football field cheering on my son’s team or enjoying a bottomless brunch, catching up with friends. I also aim to reach 10,000 steps a day and have managed to loose 3 stone since Christmas!

How long have you been volunteering for the charity?

I first started volunteering for Fresh Futures in 2020 when it was called the Yorkshire Children’s Centre. I first started doing community contact (befriending) then I moved on to family time. For a while I enjoyed both, however now I only volunteer for the family time which I enjoy.

Tell us more about your volunteering role:

I help support families to progress and rebuild positive relationships.

What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?

I’m usually the first one in the building & one of the last ones out (by choice)! Most days can be busy however the staff and other volunteers makes it more enjoyable as they are a pleasure to be around. They’re like family!

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

In 2020 just before lockdown I found myself in a very confused place. I was a stay home single mum and needed a focus!

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?

DO IT!

If something isn’t for you there’s always other roles you can try 😊 and everyone I have met here are lovely!

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Laura, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer Of The Month – March 2025

Posted on 10 March 202510 March 2025 by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Karen who is a Community Friend. We caught up with Karen to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I work as an admin assistant which I love. I have recently gone back to college to do math’s GCSE! I love spending time with family and friends.

Tell us more about your volunteering role:

My befriending role involves me visiting my friend most weeks and I ring her a couple of times a week for a catch up.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity?

I have been a befriender for about 11 years. I have also done some reading groups in a care home setting, helped out at the centre with events and delivered gifts at Christmas.

What’s a typical day volunteering like for you?

I’ll generally ring my friend on a Monday night and might call with a sandwich one day. She is 93 and loves a good chin wag!

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I worked in Brighouse Sainsburys and we did some work collecting Christmas gifts for the elderly people who visited a rest centre. Most were on their own and the small gifts were so appreciated. The difference it made really made me want to help where I could!

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering at Fresh Futures?

It’s so rewarding, you can make such a difference by giving just an hour a week. I would advise anyone to do it, I have made some lovely friends over the years.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Karen, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer of the Month: February 2025

Posted on 26 February 20253 March 2025 by Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Zach who volunteers for Elevate. We caught up with Zach to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m 6’3 and I like to think I’m a little funny

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I’ve been volunteering since the start of October 2024.

Explain your volunteering role: I help out wherever I’m needed and I help run the elevate sessions.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’d been coming to sessions myself and wanted to try something new.

Sum up a typical day of volunteering for you: I turn up a little earlier than everyone else to help set up the session. I greet people as they enter the room and then we play some kind of game, normally its Uno no mercy but other times we do arts and crafts or we just have conversations.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Futures? It’s about more than yourself, it’s about everyone around you

A poster that says Volunteer of the Month at the top, with some hands reaching up below the title. Under these is a picture of 3 people stood next to a building looking at the camera.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Zach, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Fresh Futures Gains Incredible Support from Local Café – Here’s How You Can Get Involved

Posted on 11 February 20255 March 2025 by Aimee Webb

Unity Yard Café at Holmfirth

Unity Yard, an arty café based in Holmfirth, has been supporting Fresh Futures since the end of 2024. The café supports over 140 local artists and makers, selling art; plants; gifts; clothes and more in their café. You can find them on Facebook and Instagram.

Comfy sofas and chairs that customers can sit on whilst they visit Unity Yard Café — The seating area at Unity Yard

A member of the Unity Yard team posing with a cup of coffee by the till in the Unity Yard Café — The inside of Unity Yard

The café has kindly supported the charity over the festive period by selling our very own Christmas Cards that were designed by students that attend Brian Jackson College during their art classes.

Unity Yard also have a Fresh Futures collection tub, collecting funds that goes towards supporting disadvantaged children, young people and their families. Fresh Futures looks forward to continuing this partnership into 2025 and beyond!

A member of the Unity Yard team has also given up their own time to volunteer as a Community Friend during the pandemic in 2020, making a weekly phone call to her matched friend every week for years to follow.

Interested in Volunteering:

If you would be interested in volunteering in Huddersfield or Batley, for a limited time we are running three Community Friend training sessions to the public!

Sessions at Brian Jackson House, Huddersfield will be taking place on:

Wednesday 26 February, 9:30-11:30
Thursday 27 February, 17:00-18:30

And at Jo Cox House, Batley:

Wednesday 12 March, 10:00-12:00

After the session, the final steps will be completed including a DBS check and a short application, so you’ll be fully ready to start befriending and make a real difference!

For more information, please contact us today [email protected]!

a poster depicting the dates for volunteer training in Huddersfield and Batley.

Volunteer Of The Month – January 2025

Posted on 29 January 202510 March 2025 by Aimee Webb

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Christine who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Christine to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I am a retired violin teacher and still love to make music with my friends in chamber groups; love watching tennis and used to do marathon swims. I have a very caring and supportive partner.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I have been visiting my friend since January 2024. I regard my role as a friend, listener and sometimes a comforter.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: I visit my friend once a week and usually stay for about an hour and a half.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I saw an advert on the tele asking for volunteers for Age UK, and it led me to being put in touch with Brian Jackson House.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? My advice is just be yourself and be a good listener.

A poster with 'Volunteer of the Month' at the top, with hands pointing up below. Then a picture of people walking away in the park is below these. — Volunteer of the Month

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Christine, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer Of The month – December 2024

Posted on 17 December 20245 March 2025 by Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Michael who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Michael to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I’m a bus driver and a cancer survivor. Now that I’m cured, I want to give back to the community. I never like to think of someone being on their own, so I’m doing what I can to make a difference.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: I signed up over a year ago, but I had to take a break during my cancer treatment.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: It’s a joy to visit my two friends – they make my life feel whole just as much as I do for them. It’s really a two-way thing. Some days, I’ll think I can’t be bothered, but the moment I get there, I feel completely different. They’re both awesome people, and they help me as much as I help them.

There are so many rewards to being a befriender – more than I ever realised. Even on days when I wake up feeling off, just talking to my friends, and hearing their life stories makes everything better.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I wanted to give something back to the community and help improve people’s lives.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’d recommend befriending to anyone. It’s one of the best things you can do, and the support from the team at the office makes it even better. They make sure you’re matched with the right people, which means a lot.

When I delivered Christmas presents, so many people wanted to stop and talk, and that really touched me. There are so many lonely people out there, and we don’t always realize it. Now I’ve got two friends for life, and it’s been an amazing experience for everyone involved.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Michael, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer Of The Month: November 2024

Posted on 18 November 20245 March 2025 by Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Janet who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Janet to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself: I’m in my 60’s just about to officially become a pensioner-eek. I’ve been married to Greg for 45 years this month, we have 4 children and 7 grandchildren and our little dog Poppy. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going out for meals, walking, swimming, reading and baking.

How long have you been volunteering for the charity: Since 2020, I started telephone befriending during lockdown.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: I had 2 ladies who now are personal friends, one I visit every week and the other I speak to on the phone every week. My 3rd lady I visit on a weekly basis with my dog. So it can be a chat with a cuppa or a bit of a walk if she’s well enough. . I usually spend a couple of hours with each one of them. They keep me entertained and I just love spending time with them.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I’ve always worked and volunteered around younger people from when my own children were tiny, but when my Dad developed dementia I realised that there was a big gap in respect of time given to elderly people, who I came to realise through the situation with my Dad also desperately needed stimulation, time and support. When my Dad passed away in 2017, followed by my mother in law in 2018 something was missing, that link with the older generation. I luckily saw an advert on Facebook for telephone volunteers and as I’m very sociable person and love to chat I thought it would be perfect for me. I knew I could free up a few hours a week to do this as we all now know people were terribly isolated during lockdown.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? Go for it. It is so rewarding if you are matched with the right person. It has enriched my life so much and I’m sure it will yours.

A poster that says volunteer of the month at the top, under the title is 4 different coloured hands stretching up, then underneath is a picture of a woman holding a drink and smiling at the camera. — Janet Sheard – Volunteer of the Month

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Janet, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Volunteer Of The Month – October 2024

Posted on 11 November 20245 March 2025 by Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Alan who volunteers as a Community Friend. We caught up with Alan to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

Tell us a bit about yourself:

My name is Alan Moore, I was widowed in 1995 so I have some understanding of the effects losing someone close has. I am a retired engineer working for local company, Thomas Broadbent.

Tell us about a typical day in your role:

My usual volunteering day is a visit to the gym trying to keep fit, home for lunch then off to my friend to help him pass the afternoon.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I was looking for something rewarding, worthwhile and fulfilling to help pass some of the spare time I now have.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures?

For anyone thinking about volunteering, I would say DO IT. It gives me purpose to my visiting days and I get a lot out of our friendship. So much so that I am looking at trying to find another opportunity.

The image says volunteer of the month at the top, under this title is 4 coloured hands stretched up, below these is a selfie style picture of a man standing in front of a bush, looking at the camera. — Alan Moore – Volunteer of the Month

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Alan, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Lucy on 01484 519988 or [email protected]

Emerald Publishing chose Fresh Futures as their “Charity of The Year” and raised an incredible £12,252!

Posted on 15 October 202419 March 2025 by Lynne Haigh

In 2023, Leeds based publishing company Emerald hosted numerous charity events and raised an incredible £12,252 for Fresh Futures.

Emerald has a passionate team of volunteers who worked to coordinate several varied events that would allow all employees of the company to get involved with the fundraising efforts.

A few of the events held by Emerald included a sponsored walk, crafting events, a craft makers market, and skills workshops hosted by employees! One team member even opened his farm up to teach people about lambing!

A group of people, mostly women, are seated around a long wooden table in a modern office space with an industrial-style ceiling. They appear to be participating in an organized activity, as each person has a set of papers, a knife, and other materials neatly arranged in front of them. Some are wearing aprons, suggesting a hands-on or creative session. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with smiles and engaged expressions. In the background, there are workstations, holiday decorations, and a festive banner hanging on the wall. The setting is well-lit with natural light from windows and overhead lighting.

Four women are standing inside a barn, each holding a small lamb with black and white markings. They are dressed in warm clothing, including jackets, and are smiling while looking at the camera or the lambs. The setting has a rustic feel, with hay on the floor and farm structures in the background. A young child in a yellow raincoat is visible in the background, observing the scene. The atmosphere appears joyful and interactive, likely part of a farm visit.

A large group of people, dressed in outdoor clothing, are gathered outside a historic stone building with a red door. Many are wearing jackets, hats, and hiking boots, suggesting they are preparing for a walk or outdoor adventure. Two dogs are also present, one on a leash in the foreground and another being petted near a signpost. The group appears cheerful, with many smiling and standing close together. The background features a stone archway and signage, indicating a possible train station or historic site. The wet pavement suggests recent rain, adding to the brisk, outdoor atmosphere — Pictures of Emerald’s fundraising efforts

In addition to the events, numerous Emerald employees donated through payroll giving. Payroll giving is a way to contribute to a chosen charity each month without paying tax on the donation.

If your company is be interested in supporting Fresh Futures through payroll giving, you can find more information here.

When asked why they wanted to support Fresh Futures, Tamsyn Johnston-Hughes, Internal Communications Lead, said “Being a West Yorkshire business, Fresh Futures was a charity that we were passionate to support, especially as we also focus on education, and working towards supporting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals in striving to not leave anyone behind”.

Fresh Futures would love to send a huge thank you to the team at Emerald for their donation and deciding to support Fresh Futures this year and every penny received from donations helps us make a significant and lasting impact on the services we can deliver across Kirklees. Check out Emerald on Facebook and LinkedIn.

The Tree of Wishes at Brian Jackson House

Are you interested in supporting a charity on the run up to Christmas?

Why not get involved in our Tree of Wishes Appeal! We are kindly asking businesses to sponsor a bauble for £50, in exchange for your generous donation, we will display a bauble with your company logo, on a Christmas tree displayed at Brian Jackson House.

If you would like more information or to support Fresh Futures, please contact us on [email protected] or call us on 01484 519988.

Volunteer of the Month: January 2024

Posted on 22 January 202422 January 2024 by Lynne Haigh

Volunteer of the month is when we get to shout about our amazing volunteers and the, quite literally, life changing work they do to help Fresh Futures run smoothly and effectively.

This month we would like to say a big THANK YOU to Ahmed who has been volunteering at Fresh Futures since October 2023. Ahmed has been supporting Fresh Futures with the recent rebrand by creating engaging content and contributing to the charity’s visual identity.

We caught up with Ahmed to hear about his Fresh Futures Volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? Since October 2023.

Tell us a bit about yourself: I am originally from Egypt. I am a final year graphic design student at the University of Huddersfield.

Tell us about your volunteering role: In my role as a volunteer, I’ve been involved in supporting Fresh Futures with their rebranding effort. A typical day of volunteering involves collaborating with the Fresh Futures team, brainstorming and working on design projects.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? I found Fresh Futures as a result of research for my University project. I was drawn to the charity because I saw their commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Once I was able to volunteer I reached out and they were very friendly and helpful.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with Fresh Futures? My advice would be to find a role that aligns with your skills, so you are passionate about it.

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