Monday 2nd June – Sunday 8th June is Volunteers’ Week in the UK, and here in Parracombe, we wanted to recognise and celebrate the occasion by sharing a spotlight on the people that make a real difference in our community – our brilliant team of volunteers!
In the spotlight today, Carol Brunner! A ‘floating’ volunteer at the shop, which means she steps in to cover shift as and when she can, but has no set shift pattern. She is also on the PPC at Christ Church Parracombe and volunteers weekly with the National Trust.
Read on to learn more about Carol, why she volunteers and her top tip for anyone thinking about joining our incredible team…
What’s your name?
Carol Brunner
What’s your volunteering role?
I volunteer at the shop serving customers, making coffee, tea and serving in the café, I am still a ‘newbie’ so I’m learning the ropes; however everyone has been so encouraging and supportive, with a lot of fun along the way! ……. I don’t have a regular weekly slot due to other commitments, so I cover shifts when I can.
What’s your favourite thing about being a volunteer?
It’s been a great way to meet people in Parracombe, I live just outside the village so I knew many people by sight but being in the shop has meant I now, really enjoy a lengthy, meaningful chat!
What does a typical shift pattern per week look like for you?
As I say, I have a range of other commitments, family, work etc. that means I can’t commit to a regular shift pattern. Some months I’ve helped out 3 or 4 times in a month other times just once. But I still feel valued and part of the team!
Why did you want to get involved with volunteering in the first place?
I value having a local shop in the village and wanted to help in some way, and a very good friend encouraged me to give it a go!
How do you think your fellow volunteers would describe you?
Oh that’s a tricky question….hopefully kind and helpful?
Are you involved in any other type of volunteering activity?
Yes, I’m on the PCC at Christ Church Parracombe and I volunteer weekly with the National Trust, working with the West Exmoor Team. I also do some extra gardening at Cloud Farm – a National Trust campsite.
How do you balance volunteering alongside other commitments?
Just write everything down on the calendar and juggle dates best I can!
Do you have a favourite memory / story from volunteering?
I love the feeling when I’ve served a customer and they say how much they like the shop. How nice everything is…… with the all the local produce, crafts, friendly people and not forgetting the yummy cakes!
What’s your #1 top tip for someone who is considering volunteering with Parracombe Community Trust?
Give it a go….you will enjoy it!
What’s your local ‘top tip’ for holiday makers visiting the area?
There is always someone in the shop who can suggest an interesting walk or place to visit. Heddon Valley would be my suggestion…..I’m a little biased I know, as I live there, but the valley is beautiful!
What’s your favourite thing about living in or near Parracombe?
It’s a friendly rural community, set in the beautiful countryside with people who care about one another and at its centre is our special shop!
Carol, thank you for everything you do for your community.
Feeling inspired? If you’d like to join Carol and the many others in our thriving team of volunteers, you’d be very welcome.
You can access the volunteer pack and learn more about what’s involved via the Volunteer With Us page or just pop into the shop and speak to anyone on shift about volunteering.
If you’re an existing volunteer and are up for sharing your story with the local community, please get in touch annieconstable@outlook.com – we’d love to feature you in our next spotlight!