It's volunteers' week!
National Volunteers' Week is an annual event which celebrates volunteers and volunteering. Thame has many fantastic volunteer-run organisations and events which rely on the support from local people. In this week's newsletter we are going to feature some of these organisations and what opportunities they have available too!
Thame Good Neighbour Scheme - various positions available
Since its launch in 2015, Thame Good Neighbour Scheme (TGNS) has received over 300 requests for help from those in need of support in our community, from transport and befriending to shopping and gardening. We spoke to some of the TGNS volunteers to find out more!
Philip volunteers with the scheme as he is local, enjoys helping others and feels a sense of community is very important. Philip is currently helping a gentleman who, following surgery, wants to become more mobile. They go on walks together followed by a chat and a cup of tea, and Philip also takes him to the Practice for check-ups. Philip finds it very rewarding to give some of his time to make the lives of others that little bit better.
Simon and Caroline, a retired couple who live in Thame, enjoy meeting new people through the scheme and find that volunteering strengthens the community life in Thame. They regularly volunteer with one-off transport requests and add that "we would urge anyone who has a car, and has some free time, to consider volunteering as a driver."
If you would like find out more or volunteer then sign up at www.thamegns.org. TGNS volunteers will be celebrating National Volunteer's Week and the scheme's second birthday on Wednesday with tea and cake in the Town Hall! Pictures to follow in next week's newsletter.
Thame Carnival - event marshals & support
This year's Carnival takes place next Saturday (10 June) and, with a huge variety of stalls, entertainment and refreshments for everyone, the organisers promise it will be bigger and better than ever! This community event takes a lot of organisation and planning by a team of fantastic volunteers to ensure everything runs smoothly. The Carnival organisers are currently looking for people to help with road closures during the parade and with help setting up / packing away at the beginning and end of the day. If you can spare an hour or two, please contact Simon by email or on 07743 032292, or contact Sue by email or call 01844 261754.
Thame Equipment Bank - volunteer manager
Thame Equipment Bank is one of the 21st Century Thame initiatives, in conjunction with Thame Town Council, and aims to provide low-cost equipment for hire to community organisations & groups, as well as private not-for-profit hire in the Thame area. They are currently looking for a Volunteer Manager to ensure the Equipment Bank is fully utilised, facilitate bookings, stock check and administrate the finances. Download the job role and description or email Sue, Chair of 21st Century Thame, for further information and an informal discussion.
