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Tag: #Volunteering

Volunteer Of The Month – October 2024

Posted on 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 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.

A decorated Christmas tree stands in an indoor setting, adorned with red and gold baubles, tinsel, and twinkling lights. The tree is uniquely decorated with branded ornaments, each displaying a different company or organization’s logo. At the top of the tree, a silver star shines brightly. In the background, a bulletin board with posters and notices is visible, along with a hallway leading to another area of the building. A small elf figure sits at the base of the tree, adding a festive touch
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 – September 2024

Posted on 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 Liyan who volunteers as a data analyst at Fresh Futures.

We caught up with Liyan to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? 

I’ve been volunteering since November 2023.

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I’m Liyan, currently volunteering as a data analyst with Fresh Futures. I love working with data, transforming it into meaningful insights that can drive decisions and improve outcomes. It’s been a rewarding experience to contribute my skills to a cause that makes a positive impact.

Tell us about your volunteering role: 

My role involves analysing data to inform decisions, which contributes to advancing key projects and improving overall outcomes.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: 

A typical day involves collaborating with team members to analyse and present data through detailed graphic reports, focusing on Kirklees and the services Fresh Futures provides. I also analyse social media competitors to help optimize our outreach efforts and track the effectiveness of various initiatives.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

 I wanted to use my data analysis skills to make a meaningful impact in the community, and Fresh Futures provided the ideal opportunity to do just that.

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

Volunteering is an incredibly rewarding way to develop your skills while making a real impact. If you’re passionate about creating positive change, Fresh Futures offers a fantastic platform to contribute meaningfully and grow both personally and professionally.

the image shows a poster that shows a woman, smiling posing for the camera, she has dark long hair. Around the image it says Liyan Shaikh along with an image of different coloured hands up in the air and the words ' volunteer of the month'. There is a red border around the whole poster.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Liyan, 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: August 2024

Posted on 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 Joe who has been helping the charity with content creation and social media management.

We caught up with Joe to hear about his Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? 

Around 3 months

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I’m a writer, editor, and musician. In my spare time, I sing in 2 bands, one of which I’m also in full drag. If you couldn’t tell, I’m horrendously confident.

Tell us about your volunteering role:

I take the content creation and social media management skills I have gained through my career and I use it to help the charity improve their social media engagement and footprint. From creating analytics reports to creating graphics and pictures or video reels.

Tell us about a typical day in your role:

I assess the social media engagement and trends for the charity and try to understand what things are working with their audience and what things aren’t. Sometimes I will create content based around the needs of their upcoming campaigns.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures?

I wanted to gain some experience while also contributing to a good cause.

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

Do it! It’s for a good cause, it’s good for your CV, what do you have to lose?

the image shows a poster celebrating the volunteer of the month. There is an image of a man posing for a selfie, he has brown short hair and wears a black and white stripy top. The name 'Joe Hallas' is above the image as well as 4 different coloured hands reaching upwards.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Joe, 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: July 2024

Posted on 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 Rosemary Howe who volunteers for the charity as a Community Friend volunteer.

We caught up with Rosemary to hear about her Fresh Futures volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? 

I started volunteering a month or two before COVID hit, just before the Christmas period. I’d just started visiting my first friend when we had to move over to the telephone. We chatted over the phone through the entire duration of COVID, and then started meeting up again after that. After around 3 years I was matched with my current friend. It must have been over four years since I started now.

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I’m a people person – I love talking to people. I’ve done a lot of things in my life, like running a small post office for around six years, working in retail, and on a market. When I got married, I inherited 4 stepdaughters – and then had two children of my own! But now I live on my own, so I know how it feels to be alone.

Tell us about your volunteering role: 

In my volunteer role as a befriender, it’s important to show an interest. It doesn’t matter what you talk about, I just chatter away. There must be moments where I bore the pants out of my friend. But for him it’s something outside of the usual, its someone coming in with a different mindset.

Tell us about a typical day in your role: 

I visit my friend; we sit and chat and sometimes have a cup of tea. I tell him a lot about my life, but he also asks me a lot of questions and asks for my advice. I think he likes to use me as a sounding board when he’s unsure about things.

What made you want to start volunteering with Fresh Futures? 

The reason I wanted to start volunteering is because I know what it’s like to be alone. I was looking after my husband for 8 years, but during that time, there were moments where I felt isolated, as he spent a lot of time sleeping and watching the TV. I felt like I had lost him long before he had died, which made me feel very much like I had been on my own for a long time. When I moved, I knew I had to make an effort to go out and meet people. As I’m still fairly mobile and have my car I’m able to volunteer and help others, so I will go on doing this as long as I can.

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

To become a befriender, I think you’ve got to be patient and appreciate that the person you are visiting might feel frustrated to be in that situation. They will probably be very pleased to see you, but at the same time they might be feeling like things in their life were not meant to be that way. But if you succeed in brightening their day, it’s really worthwhile.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Rosemary, 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: January 2024

Posted on 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.

Volunteer of the month: October

Posted on by Katie Shephard

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 89-year-old Elaine who has been a Community Friend to 94-year-old Rita over the last year. Elaine shows incredibly heart-warming compassion and kindness to Rita, and they have formed a wonderful friendship through their weekly catch-ups.

We caught up with Elaine to hear about her Fresh Futures Volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? I have been volunteering for Fresh Futures for 1 year.

Tell us a bit about yourself: I am 89 years old, turning 90 in March, with 4 children, 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. I love chatting to people, I’ve always worked amongst people and just really enjoy company.

Tell us about your volunteering role: Every week when I visit Rita who is 94 years old, she is waiting for me at the window and waving at me. I really look forward to seeing her, we have so much to talk about, and honestly we have become great friends. Rita can’t always get her words out, so I just hold her hand and let her know that it’s okay to take her time. Usually she manages to get her words out after a little while, and I’ve noticed that her speech has improved a lot over the last year. Sometimes when she is struggling, she tells me to talk while she listens. I tell her all about my family and what’s been going on. She always remembers the details, and the following week she won’t forget to follow up! Before leaving we always have a hug when we say bye.

What made you want to start volunteering with YCC? I’ve always had a busy life, but now that my children have their own families and I’m alone, it really helps me to go and see someone. I don’t really enjoy my own company, so getting out and talking to other people who might be experiencing loneliness has been really important for me too.

And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with YCC? It’s really helped me a lot. If you are helping someone else, it also helps you. I would say, if you can visit someone who might be feeling lonely, bring them a story, a bit of news, something like that – it will really brighten their day.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Elaine, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Fresh Futures Volunteer Officer, Daisy, on: 01484 519988 or email: [email protected]

Volunteer of the Month: September

Posted on by Katie Shephard

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 Melanie who volunteers in the Community Friend Service. Melanie shows incredible support, encouragement and kindness to her friend, Beryl, and they enjoy regular trips out together to the park, shopping and to the farm shop.

We caught up with Melanie to hear about her Fresh Futures Volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? I became a telephone volunteer during the pandemic, and then about 17 months ago I became a Community Friend to Beryl.

Tell us a bit about yourself: I am a mother of two grown up children in their 20’s and I currently work part time in a number of NHS  non executive director roles having left my full time role in further education in 2019. I love being active, walking and playing tennis when ever I can as well as some time working as an “extra” in the background on film  and tv. 

Tell us about your volunteering role: Initially, I would visit Beryl for an hour on alternate weeks at her request and we would have a chat and coffee as she cared for her ill husband. We spent time getting to know each other and listening, laughing and crying on occasions. As our relationship developed and she began to trust me, I was the first person to take her out of the house for some time and I gradually saw her gain more confidence. Now, we often either have a chat in the house or on good weather days we go shopping,  to the park, or farm shop and combine a small walk with shopping and coffee. We have had two summer trips to Shibden Park and we are planning other outings. I often visit for two hours or more and we always have lots to say to each other. 

It is a privileged position getting to know, and spending time with someone at a vulnerable time in their lives. It takes time to earn the trust and develop a mutually beneficial and rewarding relationship with somebody new, entering their home and life.

What made you want to start volunteering with YCC? I absolutely love meeting people, listening and helping others. I felt the pandemic was very isolating and saw the impact on friends and family who were alone. I saw how my mother who had died from dementia benefited from visiting volunteers and I wanted to help as I saw some adverts for volunteers and knew there was a large list of people who were isolated or lonely.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Melanie, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Fresh Futures Volunteer Officer, Daisy, on: 01484 519988 or email: [email protected]

Volunteer of the Month: August

Posted on by Katie Shephard

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 Helen who has been volunteering as a Community Friend for two and a half years. Helen has been an incredible volunteer and support to her friends, June and Joanne, and has made a positive impact on their lives through her uplifting, encouraging and motivating presence.

We caught up with Helen to hear about her Fresh Futures Volunteering journey so far…

How long have you been volunteering for the charity? Two and a half years

Tell us a bit about yourself: I work in an adult social care front door service. I am married with a son who is about to make the leap into University life.

Tell us about your volunteering role: I started supporting a lady with weekly phone calls during Covid, and when lockdown was lifted, my Community Friend asked for in-person meet ups; We now speak or meet up every two to three weeks. About a year ago, I was asked if I could befriend another lady who had asked for home visits, and I now visit or phone her every couple of weeks. Sometimes, I will take my friends out to places such as the cinema, shopping, or the garden centre.

What made you want to start volunteering with YCC? Like some of my family and friends, I decided to volunteer as a Community Friend during Covid when I saw social media adverts looking for volunteers. I also knew of others who were also volunteering and I was aware through my work of the impact that social isolation had on people.  

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Helen, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact Fresh Futures Volunteer Officer, Daisy, on: 01484 519988 or email: [email protected]

Volunteer of the Month: July

Posted on by Katie Shephard

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 are giving a very special THANK YOU to Martyn Sykes who has been volunteering at YCC’s Pass It On shop for almost seven years. Martyn is a loyal and dedicated member of the team, and is known for going the extra mile for his colleagues and customers. 

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

  1. Name: Martyn Sykes
  2. How long have you been volunteering for the charity? 7 years on the 26th September.
  3. Please explain your volunteering role in a nutshell: I help the Pass It on team in any way I can, but mostly I enjoy working with the logistics team doing collections and deliveries. You never know what we are going to pick up from someone’s house. I make sure on a morning when I volunteer that everyone has a cuppa to start the day off well.
  4. What made you want to start volunteering with YCC? Originally, I came via the job centre on an 8-week placement and I enjoyed what I was doing, so I stayed on afterwards.
  5. And finally, what advice would you give to people considering volunteering with YCC? Just to give it a go – you never know until you try, keep your horizons open and you are helping people out which is a good thing.

If you feel inspired to become a volunteer like Martyn, or if you would like to volunteer in any way for our charity, please contact YCC’s Volunteer Development Manager, Lucy on: 01484 519988 or email: [email protected]