Read our latest blog on volunteering in our shops and the difference you can make.
Paula Bate has been helping at our Charity shop in Bloxwich for 18 months. Paula lives in Willenhall and a year and half ago found herself with lots of free time but nothing to do. Her background has always been in retail and her first job was as a charity shop assistant for Kent’s of Hednesford. It was from here Paula found her love for supporting the third sector and the buzz picking through the treasure-chest of goods brought in every day. She knew she wanted to spend her free time wisely but also support a good cause at the same time.
The 54-year-old explains: “Once I learned about Beacon, I knew I wanted to lend a hand and get stuck in. Every day is different, which is why I enjoy coming to the Beacon. I relish sorting through all the various items which come through the shop. Socialising with others helps me meet different and new people all the time – people from all walks of life.”
Paula highlights the feel-good factor knowing the difference her work makes to the local community. For Paula, it was more so about using her free time wisely and the positivity she got from working with Beacon.
Paula added: “Many people who come through our doors don’t’ realise the impact their money has upon the sight loss community and how it supports visually impaired people. Charity shops are vital income source, and anybody interested in supporting Beacon through its shops will be making a huge difference to the many individuals the charity supports.”
A number of volunteers who help at our retail shops either look for experience or want to use their free time wisely just like Paula.
She also adds: “Because I like to help out, I am very adaptable and can support in more than one area. I like the Beacon shop in Bloxwich because of the new challenges we face – every day is different. I would encourage anybody who has some free time to spare to think about what they can give back and how they can help make a difference to their community.”
If you would like to know more about our volunteering and other opportunities, please visit our website – www.beaconvision.org/jobs e